Visitors to the award-winning Tannaghmore Rare Breeds Animal Farm in Co. Armagh are being advised that they must not feed the animals to ensure the health and welfare of the creatures in its care, after a number of goat deaths.
With Irish Moiled, Dexter and Shetland cattle; Galway and Jacob sheep; Bagot goats; Oxford Sandy and Black pigs; a Connemara Pony and a large number of poultry and waterfowl, the farm is home to a wide range of rare and in some cases vulnerable native farm breeds.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council states:
As special livestock have their own unique and tailored dietary plan, visitors are asked to not overfeed the animals as they could get sick or die by eating too much or eating food that isn’t suitable for them.
Goat deaths
The farm recently lost three Bagot goats due to them being overfed inappropriate food, representing a significant loss to the numbers of this vulnerable breed.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kevin Savage commented:
We all want to ensure the health and safety of animals, which is why we are asking visitors to Tannaghmore Rare Breeds Animal Farm to adhere to the new feeding guidance.
“By not overfeeding the animals, the rare livestock at the farm will remain healthy and you will play your part in ensuring the continuation of these endangered and vulnerable breeds.”
Signage will be placed at key locations throughout the farm and staff will be on site to offer advice on the new guidance.
Awards
Tannaghmore Rare Breeds Animal Farm won several awards at the 2019 Rare Breed Show and Sale with a pair of Oxford Sandy and Black pigs.
The council says this latest advice is temporary and will be reviewed.