Will goats propogate seed?

[Critter Keeper]

Hey everyone! I can't remember if I have posted in the goat forum yet, but I have a question for all of you. If I graze my goats in one area and then move them to another, will the seeds that they have eaten be spread in the manure?

Thanks!
Cindy

[CaliannG]

Not very much. The would have to be small, very hard seeds...and things like grass seed are *neither*.

Unlike cows and horses, goats have very efficient digestive systems. I would not count on any seeds making it through them with enough "oomph" left to germinate.

[where I want to]

From my unoffical experience, I have sprinkle goat berries on my garlic and onions for years and have not had a problem. I am careful not to sprinkle berries mixed with straw or hay mixed.

[copperpennykids]

Around here, people love to have goats graze on their Knapweed (horrible invasive persistent weed that loves to take over and spreads easily) because they render the seed sterile. Otherwise, the seed stays viable for up to 7 years. May translate to other seeds as well.....

Gotta love a goat!

[Critter Keeper]

Thanks everyone! I had heard that they wouldn't spread seed, but just wanted to confirm with a few other folks. I have a new pasture that needs some weed and brush control before we put our pigs on it and the goats will be what I use for that. I just didn't want them to spread anything back into the other pasture that is basically weed free.

Cindy