Choosing the Right Livestock Species
The truth is, there is no single "best" livestock species. The best choice depends on your goals, your available land, your budget, the time you can commit, your local climate, and what you enjoy doing.
Some people assume they should start with cattle because they have access to pasture. Others choose chickens because they are inexpensive to purchase. While these may be good options, every species has its own advantages and challenges.
This module will help you evaluate the most common livestock species and determine which one best fits your circumstances.
Lesson 1 - Start With Your Goals
Before comparing different animals, think about why you want to keep livestock. Ask yourself -
- Am I producing food for my family?
- Do I want to earn additional income?
- Am I interested in breeding quality animals?
- Do I enjoy working with animals as a hobby?
- Am I hoping to expand into a commercial farming business?
- Do I want to improve my pasture or land?
Your goals will influence almost every decision you make. For example:
A family interested in fresh eggs may only need a small flock of laying hens.
Someone interested in producing beef for sale will require significantly more land, infrastructure, and investment.
Someone wanting to manage brush and weeds may find goats are an excellent choice.
Producer Tip: Choose a species that matches your goals—not one that simply looks profitable on paper.
Lesson 2: Questions Every New Producer Should Ask
Before buying your first animals, answer these important questions.
How much land do I have?
Different species require different amounts of space. Generally speaking -
- Poultry can be raised on relatively small properties.
- Sheep and goats require moderate grazing areas.
- Beef cattle generally require larger pastures.
- Dairy cattle need quality forage and more intensive management.
- Horses require pasture, exercise areas, and ongoing care.
The quality of your pasture is often more important than the total number of acres.
How much time do I have?
Some livestock require more daily attention than others. For example:
- Dairy animals usually require daily milking.
- Poultry require daily feeding, watering, egg collection, and security from predators.
- Beef cattle on pasture generally require less intensive daily labour, although regular observation is still essential.
Remember that all livestock require care every day—including weekends and holidays.
What is my budget?
Your costs may include:
- Purchasing animals
- Feed
- Fencing
- Water systems
- Shelter
- Veterinary care
- Equipment
- Bedding
- Insurance
- Transportation
The purchase price of an animal is often one of the smallest expenses over its lifetime.
Do I have experience?
- If you are completely new to livestock, starting with a small number of animals allows you to learn without becoming overwhelmed.
- There is nothing wrong with beginning small and expanding as your confidence grows.