Ferret

The ferret (also known as domestic polecat) is a social creature who enjoys a lot of attention. They are somewhat near-sighted and have poor hearing, which makes them rely on their sense of smell and touch. Their metabolism is extremely high, so they need to eat about 10 times a day.

Norwegian Fjord Horse

The Norwegian fjord horse is a small but strong breed. They have a striking-colored mane with light-colored hair on the edges and darker hair in the center. The mane is usually cut short so that it will stand up straight and the coloration can be seen.

Brown Swiss

This breed was originally imported to the U.S. in 1869. The milk from the brown Swiss is ideal for cheese, which makes them one of the most popular breeds in the world for cheese making. Wisconsin is one of the states that has the largest brown Swiss populations in the U.S.

Sicilian Donkey

These donkeys — also known as miniature Mediterranean donkeys — are native to Sardinia and Sicily, although the two types do not differ. Their average height is about 33 to 34 inches. By nature, they are one of the friendliest and most affectionate animals of its type.

Jersey

There are many ideas about where Jersey cattle came from. Some think the cattle came from African stock, which explains why they tolerate more heat than other breeds. Others think the cattle may have migrated to the island from India on a land bridge that used to connect the island to the French mainland. The […]

Belted Galloway

Belted Galloways, often called “Belties,” were imported to North America, starting in the 1940s. Their most common color is black with a white belt, but they are also found in a red and grayish-brown color with a white belt. Their hardiness, gentle temperament, and attractive coloring make them a favorite for beginner farmers.

Red & White Holstein

This dairy cow is marked by red and white spots. Holstein cows are known for high milk production and the average cow produces around 2,900 gallons of milk each milking cycle. A milking cycle is about one year.

Ayrshire

Ayrshire are known for their red and white color pattern. The red and white color can be almost solid or have a broken mix. Their horns are light-colored with dark tips and can be over a foot in length, when allowed to grow.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat

Previously thought to be pygmy goats, they are known for their small stature. Nigerian dwarf goats are ruminants, which means they chew cud regurgitated from the first stomach. In total, goats have four stomachs, just like a cow! On average, a doe Nigerian dwarf goat produces a half gallon of milk each day.

Kunekune Pig

The kunekune breed (pronounced “cooney” “cooney”) first arrived in the United States in the 1990s. You’ll notice little tassels on their chin, which is just longer hair — a distinctive trait for this pig. They are also friendly and loving toward people.

American Guinea Hog

American Guinea Hog

Despite their name, American Guinea hogs are native to the United States. After seeing their population decline throughout the early part of the twentieth century, American Guinea hog populations have increased in recent decades, as many new herds have been established throughout small farms. Pigs are curious and intelligent animals, and our Guinea hog receives […]

North American Porcupine

The porcupine’s most famous feature—the quill—is hollow, 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7 centimeters) in length, and lightly attached to the porcupine’s skin. Porcupines are covered in about 30,000 quills.

Scottish Highland

Scottish Highland Cow

The highland breed is the oldest registered breed in the world. The coat of a Scottish highland cow is distinctive, with hair sometimes reaching 13 inches. Their long horns help them forage for food during the winter.