What does "browse" refer to in terms of goat diet?

In the context of a goat's diet, "browse" specifically refers to the leaves, shoots, and twigs that goats consume from shrubs and trees. Goats are naturally browsers, meaning they prefer to eat higher vegetation rather than grasses alone. This feeding behavior allows goats to take advantage of a variety of plant materials, promoting their nutritional intake and satisfying their foraging instincts.

Goats have evolved to be highly adaptable feeders, which is why they seek out a diverse diet that often includes these woody plants. This distinguishes browse from other feed options, such as grass and pasture, which would be more characteristic of grazers. Understanding the difference between browsing and grazing is crucial for effective goat management, as it influences the types of forage that should be available in their environment to ensure proper nutrition and health.