Valley of the Goats

Goats are truly poor man’s cows. At Attapady area in Kerala South India, goat rearing is the sole income for Irula tribes. Two breeds goats are reared here, the Attappadi Black goat and Malabari goat. Attapadi black goat is a breed developed by the tribes. The breed is known for its sturdy nature and ability to withstand high temperature prevailing in Attapadi. These medium sized goats are black in color with adult body weight of 30 to 35 kg in buck and 28 to 30 kg in female. Attappadi Black goats are poor milk producers and hence these animals are reared only for meat purpose.
Both breeds are known for their sturdy nature and ability to withstand high temperature prevailing in Attapadi.Both is facing threat due to cross breeding. Young and old alike, all in the Irula hamlets are involved in goat rearing in one way or other. Goats are integral part of their customs and traditional medicinal practices. Alleviating the poverty of tribes of Attapadi, goats are really man’s guardian angels here. The documentary explores the goat rearing tradition of Attapady and status of two indigenous goat breeds.