Angora goats Midge (a.k.a. Ramona) and her two week old son Higgins recently joined our Wiggly Goat Farm family. They came to us from Wiseacres Farm of Underhill, Vermont. Years ago we raised Angora goats and are delighted to be able to raise them again and welcome these two to our herd.

If you’ve never met an Angora goat, let me tell you about them!

First of all, Angora goats are not to be confused with Angora rabbits (which provide angora fiber). Originating in Turkey and beloved across centuries, Angora goats are the proud producers of mohair, one of the softest, shiniest, and most durable natural fibers in the world. The exceptionally strong fibers have a tensile strength that rivals that of steel, and because of this and its gorgeous sheen, it is sometimes called the “diamond fiber.” Truly, the fiber from Angora goats is remarkable!

Their fleece grows quickly—about an inch per month—which is why Angora goats are typically sheared twice a year. Both spring and fall shearings can yield several pounds of lustrous, silky mohair.

Angora goats are the only breed of goat that are sheared. All other breeds of goats—who live in cold climates—grow a fluffy undercoat, called cashmere, that if abundant enough, can be harvested, by combing, as it sheds in the spring.

So what makes mohair fiber so magical? It’s:

• Lustrous: Mohair takes dye like a dream!
• Soft yet strong: It’s gentle enough for delicate wearables but sturdy enough to hold up for years.
• Thermoregulating: Keeps you cozy in winter and cool in summer—like the goat version of a smart thermostat.
• Elastic and wrinkle-resistant: Your project stays lovely with less fuss.

And when we blend mohair with other natural fibers, like wool or alpaca, the result is a buttery-soft yarn that knits or crochets into wearable art!

Midge and Higgins’ new adventures!

Midge and Higgins are learning more about their new home each day and slowly making friends with the other goats, sheep, alpacas, llamas and chickens. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the farm and excited about the valuable mohair they’ll produce!