A goat browsing on mimosa.
Source: SARE project, photo by
Dr. David Bransby

Goats prefer foliage from trees and shrubs. These novel dietary ingredients are rich in nutrients, although they often contain high levels of plant toxins and anti-nutritive  factors. A possible collateral benefit of browse materials containing secondary compounds is in reducing internal parasite infestations. Goats select strongly for tree foliage, shrubs, forbs, flowering parts, seeds, and nuts when they are available.

Available browse can serve as a supplement in pastures with declining forage quality and help sustain grazing animal performance. Conversely, use of predominant browse pastures can be improved by supplementation with conventional feeds (e.g., barley) to reduce secondary compound overload and provide limiting nutrients.

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