How it works
Kiko goats carry their kids for about 150 days, the same as other full-size goats, and most does kid between day 145 and day 155. The Kiko is a meat breed developed in New Zealand from feral goats crossed with dairy bucks and then selected hard for survival on rough country. The name comes from the Māori word for meat.
The breed was selected for low-input production: does that kid on pasture without help, mother their kids well, forage hard and hold condition. Most Kiko herds are pasture-bred, with a buck turned in for one or two heat cycles, so the useful number is the kidding window from the buck-in date to the buck-out date plus 150 days.
Twins are the most common litter in mature does. Many Kiko breeders time breeding so kids arrive in spring, when grass and browse are growing and the weather is mild for kids born outside.
How to use it
Enter the day the buck went in. If he stayed with the does for one or two cycles (about 21–42 days), add the day he came out so the window covers every possible kidding day. The Kiko preset (150 days) is already selected.
Reference chart
| Kiko trait | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Gestation | about 150 days |
| Normal kidding window | about 145–155 days |
| Heat cycle | about 21 days (18–24) |
| Buck-in period | often 1–2 cycles (about 21–42 days) |
| Typical litter | twins most common in mature does |
| Kidding | selected for kidding on pasture without help |
| Origin | New Zealand, from feral and dairy crosses |
| Adult doe weight | often about 100–150 lb |
Frequently asked questions
How long is a Kiko goat pregnant?
About 150 days, or 5 months. Most Kiko does kid between day 145 and day 155 after breeding.
How long should a buck stay with Kiko does?
Many herds leave him in for one or two heat cycles, about 21–42 days. Two cycles gives every doe a second chance and keeps kidding to about 6 weeks.
Do Kiko goats need help kidding?
The breed was selected for kidding on its own, and most does kid without help. Still check does daily near the window, and call your vet for a doe straining for more than about 30–45 minutes without progress.
How many kids do Kiko goats have?
Twins are most common in mature does. First-time does more often have a single.
Figures are typical values from university extension and breed-association guidance. Estimates only. Individual animals vary — confirm pregnancy and health questions with your veterinarian. Last reviewed 2026-10-07.