If livestock breeds such as cattle, goats and sheep aren’t enough for your small farm, venture into some of these more unusual animals.
The emu was big on farms until, well, it wasn't. What is it about these huge, flightless birds that prevented them from being the next big meat source?
Camels, low-maintenance animals that originated in North America, are cold-hardy and heat-resistant. They produce lots of milk and can be raised for meat and hides. Do they have a future in the American Southwest?
Do you have your heart set on a particular breed of chicks for your flock? Consult one of these sources to help you find what you want.
The Welsummer, a breed that originated in the Netherlands, has been a breakfast-cereal mascot and is known for its earth-tone eggs.
The Sebastopol is known for its beautiful feather pattern. It's a slightly smaller breed that's more friendly than some others.
A very old and attractive breed, the Brabanter displays a full beard in addition to a small, upright crest and muffs.
Are you considering trying something new on the farm? What about preserving an endangered livestock species of cattle, pig or sheep?
The Lamona, created in the early 20th century, is a high-quality, dual-purpose chicken breed. Lamona hens typically lay more than 200 eggs a year.
The Shamo is an ornamental chicken breed that produces a good amount of meat; however, the meat has been described as tough and isn’t favorable to every palate. Hens make good mothers, but fare poorly as layers.
The ornamental Sumatra chicken breed was originally used for fighting. Indonesian Island residents would catch Sumatra cocks during breeding season, use them in combat and release them once their seasonal aggression declined.
The delicate White-faced Black Spanish chicken breed has a unique white face, making it popular as an ornamental. Hens are non-broody and prolific layers of large, pure-white eggs.
