Capra Grigia

Billy of the Capra Grigia breed at pasture in the mountains (Annina Staub / Capra Grigia Schweiz)

Origin and development

The Capra Grigia is a grey mountain goat, originating from the valleys of the cantons of Ticino and Graubünden, where it has been documented for more than 100 years. According to historical documents from 1897, three types of grey goat, differing in coloration and size, were recorded in Ticino. As a result of a general decline in goat numbers, the non-recognition of the Ticino types in the 1938 review of Swiss goat breeds, and the spread of caprine arthritis encephalitis (a viral disease), these grey goats almost became extinct. From 1997, the last 30 surviving grey goats were brought together and recorded as Capra Grigia in a herdbook. In 2006, this was officially recognised as a Swiss breed. Though total numbers are steadily rising, the Capra Grigia remains among the goat breeds most at risk in Switzerland. As the population grows, selective breeding is being pursued with the aid of linear description and classification, as well as other performance tests, while also ensuring that adequate genetic breadth can be maintained.

Description

The Capra Grigia occurs in all shades, from silver to dark grey. Common to all are a mottled coat, black legs and strong, outward-growing horns. Thanks to their hard hooves, sure-footedness and preference for scrubby terrain, these attractive goats – robust, hardy and frugal – are perfectly adapted to life in the Southern Alps.

Kids of the Capra Grigia breed resting in a barn (Martina Federer / Capra Grigia Schweiz)

Breeding objectives

h Robust multi-purpose goat (meat, milk and vegetation management) h Well-suited to mountainous terrain, healthy, no genetic defects h Good fertility with good rearing traits and milk production sufficient for twins h Longevity and long productive life

References

Capra Grigia Schweiz (www.capragrigia.ch) ProSpecieRara (www.prospecierara.ch)