All Animals

Goat

Capra aegagrus hircus
Mammal

Step into the world of our goats and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures

A goat on a lead at Hamilton Zoo

Goats are naturally curious. They are also agile and well known for their ability to climb and balance in precarious places. Due to their agility and inquisitiveness, they are notorious for escaping their pens by testing fences and enclosures, either intentionally or simply because they are used to climbing. Goats have been found to be as intelligent as dogs by some studies. 

Communicating through facial expressions, ear position, various movements, and a range of vocalizations goats can express fear, pain, interest in breeding, dominance, and even happiness and contentment.

Goats are social animals and usually prefer the company of other goats, but their herd mentality has meant that even in domestication, they will form close bonds with their owner and follow them around.

Quick facts

Distribution:

Worldwide

Habitat:

Mountains, rocky hills, shrublands, farmlands

Conservation Status:

Least Concern

Fun fact

Goats were one of the first animals to be tamed by humans and were being herded 9,000 years ago!