One of the many animals that can be found at the 2022 Exotic Animal Sale in Jamestown on May 15th. Photo: Jamestown Exotic Animal Sale
JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – An enormous consignment of exotic poultry breeds, rabbits, miniature cattle, donkeys, ponies, goats, llamas and more will be available at the Exotic Animal Sale May 15th.
“We started this sale in 2019 and it has grown way beyond any of our expectations,” organizer Alisa Foerderer stated. “We are told that we are the second largest Exotic Sale in the Midwest.”
The numbers back that up.
Last year, over 1400 people from 4 different states and locally participated in the 2021 event.
“Which is an economic boost for the city of Jamestown with motels, dining, and more,” Foerderer added. “Our following of supporters is absolutely amazing and without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
The primary reason the event was created was to provide an outlet for hobby farm families to market their animals. From a little girl selling one rabbit to a cosigner with 50 goats, Foerderer says every person takes pride in their animals and they recognize that to try and get the best price they can.
While they expect one of their bigger turnouts, Foerderer says they’re still taking into consideration the Avian Influenza outbreak.
“The North Dakota Department of Agriculture has halted the sale of birds in the state until June 1 when they will reevaluate the situation. Therefore, our sale will look a little different without the rows and rows of poultry. We are still very optimistic as we are anticipating approximately 100 cages of non-poultry animals including many breeds of rabbits, some ferrets, hedgehogs, and guinea pigs,” she added.
The other animal herds are also looking strong.
“The goat and sheep market is high and donkeys are in high demand,” she explained. “We expect over 400 goats and sheep of all kinds of breeds, around 50 head of miniature and standard size donkeys, 40 plus head of miniature cattle, longhorns, highlanders, zebus and even a 9 month old yak named ‘Autumn.’ We will have numerous llamas, alpacas, and pigs along with 25 head of miniature ponies and horses.”
Lunch will be onsite courtesy of the local 4-H Club with concessions and other vendors too.
“We hope to see past visitors once again as well as some new faces this Sunday,” Foerderer stated.
Buyers, sellers, and spectators are all encouraged to join the event at the Stutsman County Fairgrounds. Animals will be available starting around 10 AM and the sales will start at 10:30 AM.
Those who want more information are encouraged to visit jamesriverexoticanimalsale.wordpress.com