Starting a small hobby farm in BC can be a very fun and rewarding venture. Raising your own animals and making a life long connection with them is special. Especially if you raise your livestock from young. In this blog post we are going to explore some of the best livestock breeds to have on a small hobby farm in British Columbia.
Miniature Cattle (Dexter Cattle)
If you’re looking to raise cattle but have limited space, Dexter cattle are an excellent choice. Known for their smaller size, Dexter cows are a great option for small hobby farms or urban homesteads. Despite their small stature, they are hardy, producing both milk and beef. They thrive in BC’s temperate climate and require less pasture than larger breeds. With their gentle nature, they are also well-suited for families with kids and beginners to livestock farming.
KuneKune Pigs
Originating from New Zealand, KuneKune pigs are an ideal breed for small farms. These pigs are relatively small, easy to manage, and require less space compared to traditional commercial breeds. KuneKunes are friendly, affectionate, and often described as “cute” due to their unique appearance with short legs and upturned snouts. They are excellent grazers and can help with pasture management by eating weeds and grasses. KuneKune pigs are also a good option for those interested in producing pork for their family, as they are known for their tasty and tender meat.
Sheep (Hair Sheep or Heritage Breeds)
Raising sheep can be a great option for hobby farms, as they are relatively low-maintenance and versatile. In BC, hair sheep breeds like the Barbados Blackbelly or St. Croix are a popular choice. These breeds are well-adapted to BC’s climate and are known for their hardiness, which makes them ideal for grazing in both wet coastal and dry interior environments. Hair sheep don’t require shearing like wool breeds, making them easier to care for. They also produce excellent meat, which is a bonus for farmers looking to raise animals for food.
If you prefer wool sheep, breeds like the Romney or Corriedale can also thrive in BC, especially if you have access to pasture and are interested in fiber production.
Chickens (Heritage Breeds and Bantams)
Chickens are a staple on many hobby farms due to their low-maintenance needs and multiple benefits: egg production, meat, and natural pest control. For smaller farms in BC, heritage breeds like Rhode Island Reds or Barred Plymouth Rocks are great choices. These breeds are hardy, easy to care for, and can handle colder temperatures, making them ideal for BC’s diverse climate.
If you’re looking for chickens with a smaller footprint, bantams are perfect for small spaces. Bantam breeds, like the Silkie or Cochin, are compact, have charming personalities, and are often raised for ornamental purposes or as pets, though they can also lay eggs and produce small amounts of meat.
Rabbits
Rabbits are a fantastic option for small-scale farming in BC. They require minimal space, reproduce quickly, and are easy to care for. If you’re raising rabbits for meat, breeds like the New Zealand White or Californian are great choices as they grow quickly and produce high-quality meat. If you’re looking for pets or fiber production, consider breeds like the Angora or Himalayan.
Rabbits also thrive in a variety of climates, including BC’s cooler coastal regions, as long as they have a sheltered, comfortable living space.
Turkeys and Ducks
If you’re interested in raising poultry for meat, turkeys and ducks are both great options for small farms. Heritage turkey breeds like the Royal Palm or Broad Breasted Bronze adapt well to BC’s climate and are raised for both meat and eggs. They are easy to raise and can be quite friendly, making them a popular choice for families.
Similarly, ducks like the Khaki Campbell or Rouen are hardy and productive, especially for egg production. Ducks also enjoy being outdoors and can help keep your garden or property free of insects, as they love to forage.
Alpacas or Llamas
For hobby farmers interested in fiber production, alpacas and llamas are fantastic choices. These gentle animals thrive in BC’s varied climate and are great for raising high-quality fleece. Alpacas, in particular, are prized for their soft and luxurious wool, which can be spun into yarn for textiles. Llamas can also be used as pack animals, making them a fun and functional addition to a hobby farm.
Conclusion
When it comes to livestock for small hobby farms, there are lots to choose from. Chicken are especially a popular choice in BC for their grazing of fields and daily egg production. No matter what you choose you will no doubt form a strong bond with them that brings life to your property.
If you are interested in starting your own hobby farm on a new property, contact us at BC Farm & Ranch and let us realize your dream by finding the perfect property for you!