Antelope

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Antelope are ruminant hoofed mammals of the family Bovidae in the order of even-toed ungulates. These animals are spread relatively evenly throughout the various subfamilies of Bovidae and many are more closely related to cows or goats than to each other. There are many species of antelope, ranging in size from the tiny Royal Antelope to the ox-like Elands.

Male antelope are noted for their horns, which are permanent, unlike the annually-shed antlers of deer, and which often take on extravagant curved shapes such as arcs and helices. The midrange antelope, such as gazelles, impala, and blackbuck antelope, typically have a light and elegant frame, slender and graceful limbs, small cloven hooves, and a short tail. Small antelope and large antelope can both be quite variable in form, but tend to have proportionally shorter legs and thicker builds than the mid-sized antelope.[1]

Antelope exhibit different defensive behaviors based on their size, habitat, and number. Small solitary antelope tend to live in dense forested areas, and defend themselves by hiding. Duikers get their name from this ability to dive into the vegetation. Gazelle-sized antelope run and leap, and some species exhibit the unique behavior of pronking or stotting. Large antelope congregate in larger herds and can depend on running or group defense. [2]

Antelope are found in a wide range of habitats, typically woodland, forest, savannahs, grassland plains, and marshes. Several species are adapted to mountains and rocky outcrops, a few to deserts (both hot and cold), and a couple are semi-aquatic and live in swamps.

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How to Build a Goat Shelter

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• 2x4 boards
• Plywood
• 4x4 posts (4)
• Nails
• Hammer
• Shovel or post hole digger
• Instant concrete
• Shingles or tin for roof
• Tin for outside walls (optional)

Think Ahead Before Starting

Step1
Consider the climate to determine what type of shelter to build. It's most important that fainting goats are protected from wind and rain.
Step2
Decide how big you need to build the shelter, depending on the number of goats you currently have. Also, keep the climate in mind. Decide if a smaller space will keep them warmer in winter, or if they need more space to stay cool in summer. If you are you looking to expand your herd, keep this in mind when you build a shelter. You can easily add sections or stalls if necessary.
Step3
Find a location for the shelter. A three-sided shed works well for mild climates. However, a four-sided shelter with a small door might be ideal. The goats can roam in and out, but it will provide them with more warmth and protection from predators.
Step4
Decide on your budget. If you are serious about breeding/selling goats, then you may spend more on a shelter than a hobbyist. Natural shade and wind breaks are adequate shelter in most climates, but a simple, draft-free, three-sided shed is relatively cheap and provides good protection.

Begin Building

Step1
Find a suitable location. Choose high, flat ground that won't flood. The back of the shelter should face the wind, so your goats have protection from drafts
Step2
Measure how big you want the shelter to be. Consider at least 10 by 10 feet for up to three goats, and larger if you will breed them or plan on keeping more goats.
Step3
Dig four holes for the corner posts. The holes should be at least 3 feet deep. Reinforce the posts with concrete. Let the concrete dry around the posts before adding dirt, and pack the dirt tightly.
Step4
Build the three sides with sturdy 2 by 4 inch wooden boards. Use at least three boards for each side, spacing them evenly. Use at least four nails for each end of the boards: two on one side, two on the other. Nail boards in place for the roof.
Step5
Build the roof from thick plywood and shingles or tin. Tin will be quicker and cheaper, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing.
Step6
Enclose the shelter. Nail thick plywood boards to the inside of the shelter. It will prevent the goats from climbing and will provide extra protection from the elements. Nail plywood and/or tin to the outside.
Step7
Add bedding to the floor of the shelter. Straw and/or pine shavings work very well.

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