Story: Exotic farm animals

Although sheep and cows make up the vast majority of farm animals, New Zealanders have tried farming many different species. Some of the most successful are goats, alpacas, llamas and ostriches.

Story by Jim Esson
Main image: Ostriches

Story summary

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Introducing animals

People have introduced many animals to New Zealand for farming, hunting, controlling pests or for work. Some, such as zebras, squirrels and gnus, were brought just because they were interesting.

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs were introduced around New Zealand because they eat the slugs, snails and grubs that damage plants.

Animals for fur

Ferrets, rabbits and possums were hunted for their fur, but are now pests because they damage native plants and animals. Fur from wild possums that have been trapped or shot is used to make clothing.

Goats

Angora goats have been farmed for their mohair fibre, which can be sold for higher prices than wool from sheep.

Alpacas and llamas

Alpacas and llamas both come from South America. They are farmed for their fibre, which is soft and silky, and is made into warm clothes. Alpacas are often shorn lying down, to keep them still.

Water buffaloes

Only a few water buffaloes are farmed in New Zealand. Buffalo meat is low in fat and cholesterol, and a small amount of cheese is made from river buffalo milk.

Ostriches and emus

Ostriches and emus are both farmed for meat, but there is also a market for ostrich leather, feathers and eggs, and emu oil. Because they are large birds, farms need very high fences.

How to cite this page:

Jim Esson, 'Exotic farm animals', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/exotic-farm-animals (accessed 19 March 2024)

Story by Jim Esson, published 24 November 2008