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Where did they come from?
Myotonic goats were originally discovered in the 1870's in Tennessee. No one knows where they came from before that.
There is "speculation" that John Tinsley came from Nova Scotia but no evidence to prove that has ever been found, based upon
any research. Like Boers, we can guess and think of what is more then likely. But there is no concrete evidence. However,
it is immaterial to the history of the Myotonic breed and this is the most common used place of origin.
What is a Myotonic Goat?
The defining genetic trait is a neuromuscular condition which developed naturally that causes them to stiffen
and sometimes fall over when startled. (Note: This is not a defect.) These goats are called many things, Tennessee fainting
goats (they do not lose consciousness, so they don't faint so this is really not a correct term), wood leg, stiff-leg, nervous,
or scare goats. Out of these stiff-leg is the best to describe them. I personally will always call them what they are Myotonic
Goats. Some breeders will lecture you on the "common names" I do not but remain politically correct. Myotonia is seen in other
species of animal as well.
Myotonic goats are a "landrace" breed, meaning they adapt to the conditions in which they live. These
goats are a meat goat and very sturdy and self-sufficient. They are also not fence climbers or big jumpers. Based on this,
many feel they are easier to contain.
There are truly only two totally ture "MEAT" goat breeds in this country -- Myotonics and
pygmies. Every other meat goat breed has significant DAIRY influence. Kiko, deriving from the Saanen. Boers, deriving from
the Anglo Nubian. When you look at it, there are 3 types of goats: meat, milk, and hair/fiber. Myotonics very logically fit
into the "meat" category. True meat goats do NOT have long legs. You don't eat what is between the belly and the ground. True
meat goats don't have big udders that will catch/hang/get damaged on briers and other plants in the forests/fields/forage
areas. Meat goats also do not require as much to eat, another reason for smaller udders or bags when kidding. These goats
are also being used more in more for their fiber every day.
The degree of stiffness varies within the breed, with the meatier, more muscular animals displaying
more stiffness. As for percentages, they can actually faint better then some FB's. It is not the % that makes the Mytonia
in a goat it is the bloodline and the gene itself and how it is carried. Some Myotonic goats will faint few times in it's
lifetime based on the way the gene falls. This breed is considered a medium breed but the size
varies from mini to very large in size. Here at Grace's you will find them from Mini to Medium in size. However the larger
in size were "improved" by breeding the larger more muscled blood lines, this was first started with Suzzane Gasparotto at
Onion Creek Ranch in Buda, Texas. These bloodlines were later named the "TENNESSEE MEAT GOAT" or "TMG". (Please see the
LINKS page for more info on this breeder.)
This breed is a very calm, laid back breed. Myotonic goats are tremendously smart and very curious
of their surroundings. The does of this breed are great mothers, easy kidders and the family ties are very strong in
this breed. These goats are also not considered a seasonal breeder. I have met few people with a Myotonic goat, that have
not wanted more.
Miniature Silkies are set apart from other breeds of goats by their long flowing coat. The longer the better! Mini Silkies
can be found in a variety of colors: blue, brown or marbled eyes and either polled or horned. Does should not
exceed 23.5 inches at the wethers and bucks not over 25 inches.
How the Mini Silky began
The Mini Silky standard
We also have Moonspots here at Grace's Farm. What is a moonspot you ask? Here is a link to learn all about
it.
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