Chapter 13 Predator Control Brian

In Oklahoma, goat producers are blessed with climatic conditions conducive to viable goat production. However, they also are burdened with the eastward expansion of predator populations that constantly are increasing. Predator control within a goat herd is probably one of the single most important factors in maintaining profitable returns from a goat operation. In 2004, U.S. losses of goats and kids to predators totaled more than 155,000 head at a value of $18.3 million. Figure 13-1 shows the percentage of sheep and goats lost to various predators in the U.S. during 2005. Comparing these figures to a death loss of 260,200 head with a value of $33.3 million for all other causes (respiratory, viral diseases, weather, age, theft and other causes), shows what a heavy toll predators can take on a goat operation (United States Department of Agriculture, 2005). What are predators? Many animals qualify as predators with respect to a goat herd. However, coyotes, feral or pet dogs and to a lesser extent bobcats top the list in goat depredation studies (Figure 13-2). Occasionally, foxes, eagles, mountain lions and bears also can cause losses of goats and kids. The day may come where goat losses to these latter species may become more frequent in the forested areas of Oklahoma.