Iniciativas de conservación la cabra de raza Bermeya de Asturias

Abstract

This paper describes the Bermeya goat breed of Asturias (Northern Spain). This breed was the major local goat population in the Spanish Cantabric Branch. Adult males average 64 kg for live weight, 81 cm for height at withers and 75 cm for body length. Adult females average 42 kg for live weight, 74 cm for height at withers and 71 cm for body length. A questionnaire was carried out, including a total of 90 questions, in 27 Bermeya farms to assess the structural risk affecting the Bermeya goat breed of Asturias. The questionnaire aimed at describing the livestock composition of the farms, the territorial basis, the facilities of the farms, the feed and management of the flock, production, health of the animals, and the social and economic aspects of the farms. The farms exploiting Bermeya goats are not solidly based. Farms are of small size and are managed in a very traditional way; so, they can not be competitive in market conditions. Since maintaining the traditional uses of the land is an important goal for conservationists, shepherds and herds of goats should be supported by Public Administrations. The Bermeya farmers are still young and they should react positively to a long-term decision of the administration.