Function

• Developed for commercial meat production

History

• Originated in New Zealand from feral mountain goat population
• Kiko is the Maori (native tribe of  New Zealand) word for "flesh" or "meat"
• 1970's -  Garrick and Ann Batten start Goatex Group Ltd to develop new commercial meat production goat
• Feral herds were established, given unique herd prefix for identification.
• Feral goat characteristics: hardy, parasite resistance and strong maternal instincts but small and low in milk production
• Anglo nubian, Toggenburg and Saanen bucks were crossbred with feral does to enhance survivabliity, liveweight and performance.
• 1987 - Kiko breed established in New Zealand
• 1990's - Kikos exported to United States. All imported Kiko goats retain orignal herd prefix on pedigrees

Characteristics

• Superior survivability
• Parasite resistant
• Disease resistant
• Forage-based weight gain
• Strong maternal capabilities
• Good hooves
• Good lean carcass
• No common coat color or pattern
• No specific breed type