This ancient native breed is known to have existed continuously since the 1380’s. The name is derived from the Bagot family, of Blithfield Hall, Staffordshire, who owned the earliest known herd which roamed wild in Bagots Park, three miles from the Hall.
Its origin is the subject of discussion and research, which may be followed in the publications of the Bagot Goat Breed Society, affiliated to the BGS.
The Bagot is medium sized, with long hair, and horned and has a nervous character. The striking colour pattern which breeders aim for is entirely black from nose to shoulder, entirely white behind the shoulder line, however this pattern currently does not always bred true.
Bagot numbers have fluctuated for a variety of reasons but the breed is now secure as herds exist in many locations, and numbers are increasing, even though it is not a productive breed, except possibly for meat.
Purchasers of Bagot stock should ensure that it is pure-bred. At one time a grading up programme was operated to increase numbers and decrease inbreeding. Bagot males were used on any female goat and progeny were backcrossed. With hindsight this programme produced unfortunate results.
The Bagot Goat Breed Society has all the pedigrees of registered animals on computer, so that pure breeding may be ascertained.