Our Animals
Mountain Lodge Farm currently has goats, sheep, llamas, and livestock guard dogs.
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One of the things that makes us unique is that we browse our goats and sheep daily on the native shrubs, trees, and forbs on our land. We want our cheese to have the taste of this wonderful place in the foothills of Mt. Rainier. We also think the exercise, sunshine, variety and nutrition is beneficial to our goats. More information about our goats below the picture.
Our primary focus is dairy goats, and the production of delicious milk from our happy, healthy herd. We raise two breeds of goat, Nigerian Dwarfs and La Manchas, and a cross between the two that we call Lagerians. We were looking for hardy breeds that are easy kidders, intelligent, good milking parlor manners and just plain enjoyable to be around.
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Nigerian Dwarfs
Nigerian Dwarfs, as the name implies, originated in Africa. They are characterized by a tiny stature (does generally stand 22 inches or less at the withers and weigh 70-85 lbs) and milk that is high in fat and protein and sweet to the taste, which is preferred for cheese-making.
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La Manchas
La Manchas are easily recognized by their very small or non-existent ears, givings their faces a distinctive look. La Manchas are great milkers, producing large quantities of milk high in fat and protein, which makes delicious cheese.
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Lagerians
A cross between Nigerian Dwarf and LaMancha, a perfect combination to enhance your milk for drinking and cheesemaking. Lagerians can inherit LaMancha ears or full Nigerian Dwarf ears. They also have the unique ability to have what is called a gopher ear, less than two inches long.
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Goat Care
We find all of our goats to be curious, social, and vocal individuals, with their own personalities and quirks. One of the most rewarding parts of farm work is getting to spend time with and know our animals.
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Feeding
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Grain training to get goats used
to the milking stand.
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Plus plenty of browse walks
on the ridge above the barn.
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