8 animals that work well in mixed-species pastures
Rotating or grazing different species together can make better use of pasture, improve soil health, and help control pests and weeds. The key is choosing animals that won’t compete too aggressively for the same resources and can benefit from each other’s presence.
These combinations tend to work well when managed carefully.
Sheep
Sheep graze close to the ground and target plants that cattle often ignore.
They pair well with other grazers, helping keep pasture growth balanced.
Goats
Goats browse on brush and weeds, complementing grass-eating animals.
They’re ideal for reducing invasive plants in a mixed setup.
Cattle
Cattle prefer grasses and leave behind plants other animals will eat.
Their grazing patterns can help manage pasture when rotated with smaller livestock.
Chickens
Chickens scratch through manure, eating fly larvae and reducing pests.
They also spread manure across the pasture, improving nutrient distribution.
Ducks
Ducks forage for insects and snails without tearing up the pasture.
They’re low-impact companions for larger grazing animals.
Pigs
Pigs can be used strategically to clear brush and turn over soil between grazing rotations.
They work best in limited, managed areas to prevent over-tilling.
Horses
Horses graze selectively, leaving plants that other species will eat.
They can share pasture with cattle or sheep without heavy competition.
Alpacas
Alpacas tend to graze lightly and avoid damaging pasture if rotated properly.
They also act as calm companions to smaller livestock like sheep or goats.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
