It’s that time of year again at Shrub Oak International School, where holiday celebrations extend to every corner of our campus—even the Shrub Oak farm. Once the festive lights have dimmed and the ornaments have been carefully packed away, our goats eagerly await their unique tradition: feasting on Christmas trees. While many might see these trees as post-holiday clutter, for our goats, they are a delicious and beneficial treat.
Each year, the Shrub Oak farmers gather fresh, undecorated Christmas trees to provide a seasonal snack for our goats. Goats naturally enjoy nibbling on a variety of plant matter, and evergreen trees like firs and spruces are no exception. These trees are rich in nutrients that support their digestive health, and chewing the rough bark helps keep their teeth in great shape. The needles, bark, and branches offer vitamins like vitamin C, essential oils, and antioxidants, making them a wholesome addition to their diet.
The excitement in the air is palpable when the goats see the trees arriving. Their playful curiosity kicks in as they explore and sample the needles and branches. Watching our goats enjoy this simple yet meaningful tradition is a joy for everyone involved. It is a lively and engaging activity that showcases their natural foraging behavior, reminding us of the importance of providing opportunities for enrichment and stimulation.
However, as fun as this tradition is, we always ensure it is done with the goat’s safety in mind. Not all Christmas trees are safe for goats. We only accept trees that are completely free of tinsel, ornaments, and chemical treatments like flame retardants, and we do not offer them too many trees – as that could make them sick.
By repurposing these trees instead of sending them to landfills, we are also helping reduce waste while providing a valuable resource for our animals. The practice highlights how simple actions can benefit both animals and the planet, turning something as common as a Christmas tree into a thoughtful way to give back.
For our students, this tradition offers a hands-on opportunity to engage with the animals and learn more about their care. It is one of many ways we incorporate our farm into the educational experiences at Shrub Oak International School. By participating in activities like preparing the trees or observing the goats’ reactions, our students deepen their connection with the natural world and develop a sense of responsibility toward animal welfare.
As the season comes to a close, we are reminded once again of the joy and sense of community that traditions like these bring to Shrub Oak International School. From our bustling classrooms to the seasonal antics on the farm, every moment reflects the spirit of care, creativity, and learning that defines our school. For our goats, a Christmas tree may just be a snack, but for all of us, it is a symbol of the thoughtful ways we can celebrate the holidays together.
