Tauernsheck

The Tauernsheck is a very rare goat breed. Its roots are in the Austrian Landrace, the Pinzgauer, and an unknown ancestor that brought the white spots. Austrian farmers started breeding it in the late 1800s. The breed was mostly bred in the Raurisertal (The valley of Rauris) and in the area around the Grossglockner (mountain). In 1994, 20 breeders had around 200 animals. Since then the number has increased. The goat was bred in black and brown, like the Swiss Oberhasli, but it has a white line in the face and at least two or more big white spots on the sides, that generally do not break the dorsal line. The legs are brown and black. The animals should be at least bi-color (black and white).

The Tauernsheck was bred in these colors to make it easier to find. Normally every Austrian goat spends the summertime in the Alps. High up in the mountains they stay in their herd and enoy the grass, the good fresh air and the peace. In the fall they are herded back to the farm houses. Goats sometimes try to hide but with triple colors, the Tauernsheck was and still is easy to find up in the Alps. In the summer and fall they are easy to identify by their white spots and in late fall or winter through the black or brown color. The Tauernsheck is a very healthy breed and is known for its longevity.

Both bucks and does have horns and normally do not get de-horned. The does kid once a year most often with twins, but occasionally with singles. Tauernshecks are very good mothers and have very high quality milk, with a high production level. The bucks of this breed are known for their fighting. Bucks are 75-90 cm at the shoulder and weigh 60-80 kg, while does are 70-77 cm at the shoulder and weigh 50-70 kg.