The domestic goat, scientifically known as Capra aegagrus hircus, is one of the oldest domesticated animals in the world. Although they are often associated with farm life and rural settings, goats can be found in regions across the globe except Antarctica. They are highly adaptable animals capable of thriving in a wide range of environments, climates, terrains and landscapes, making them suitable for diverse agricultural practices. They are known for their agility and ability to scale rocky terrains effortlessly. These versatile creatures have been bred for centuries for their milk, meat, fibre and even their ability to serve as pack animals.
With a lifespan of around 10-12 years on average, goats come in numerous breeds that exhibit varying characteristics such as size, colouration and coat type. From the small Nigerian Dwarf goat to the larger Saanen or Alpine breeds, each has its unique characteristics and purposes. While some are primarily raised for milk production due to their high butterfat content, others excel in meat production or fibre quality.
Apart from their role as a source of food and materials, goats also offer numerous environmental benefits. Their grazing habits help control vegetation growth by consuming invasive plant species and reducing fire hazards. Keeping goats has become increasingly popular among small-scale farmers and hobbyists due to their manageable size compared to larger livestock animals like cows or horses. Goat farming is very widespread within India. Milk and meat can be obtained from goats. And good profit can also be obtained easily from goat rearing. Even if you do not have the means, you can easily raise a goat.
Goat
Capra aegagrus hircus or Capra hircus
41-60 cm in height and 68-100 cm in length
20-140 kg
8-12 years
The goat is an animal, belonging to the family Bovidae also includes domestic cattle, antelopes, wild buffaloes and the tribe Caprini, meaning it is closely related to the sheep. The scientific name of the goat is "Capra aegagrus hircus" which is a domesticated subspecies of the wild Capra aegagrus. This scientific name may sound complex, but it reveals intriguing insights about these animals. The first part of the name, Capra aegagrus, refers to their wild ancestor, the Bezoar ibex or Persian ibex. These wild goats can still be found in remote regions of Iran and other parts of Asia. The second part of the scientific name, hircus, highlights an important trait specific to domestic goats – their distinctive scent. Hircus is derived from the Latin word hircus, which means he-goat or male goat.
Domestic goats, often referred to as all-purpose animals, boast an array of incredible facts and features that make them truly fascinating creatures.
Domestic goats, known for their diverse appearances and unique anatomy, have captivated humans for centuries. These remarkable creatures vary greatly in size, colouration, and horn structure. A goat is one of the smallest domesticated ruminants and hollow-horned mammals in the genus Capra. Related to the sheep, the goat is sturdy and lighter in build with a body covered in hair or fur that can come in various colours such as white, black, brown or spotted patterns. Their coats vary widely depending on breed and so does their hair type with it being either short, long, curled, silky or coarse. It has four legs, horns on its head that arch backwards and the size can be from small to medium. The goat also has muscular limbs, strong hooves on its legs, a short tail and a long beard on its chin. Both male and female goats have distinctive curved or corkscrew-shaped horns, although some may be hornless. In terms of size, domestic goats generally range from small to medium-sized animals. While smaller breeds can weigh around 9.1 kilograms and are 45.7 cm tall, larger ones can reach up to 113.5 kilograms or more and are 106.7 cm in height. They are one of the cleanliest animals and are much more selective feeders than cows, sheep, pigs, swine and even dogs. Goats are brilliant and curious animals. Their inquisitive nature is exemplified in their constant desire to explore and investigate anything unfamiliar that they come across.
Their horns serve multiple purposes such as defense against predators or establishing dominance within a herd. Their fur provides insulation from extreme temperatures and protects them from harsh weather conditions. Some breeds exhibit long hair that provides insulation during cold winters or high altitudes. Goats have a unique skeletal structure that allows them to navigate steep terrain with ease. The ribs are elongated, curved bones that form the ribcage, the skeleton of the thoracic cavity (chest). They are ruminants, meaning they have a four-chambered stomach that allows them to digest tough plant material efficiently. Their legs are positioned outwards from their body, giving them excellent balance and agility on rocky slopes or uneven ground. Goats possess two-toed hooves that help with stability while climbing or jumping. They also possess rectangular-shaped pupils that provide them with excellent peripheral vision and depth perception. Their ears are upright and mobile, enabling them to detect even the slightest sound or movement around them.
Worldwide, the majority of domestic goats live in Asia. However, goats are found on every continent, except Antarctica. The goat or domestic goat is a domesticated species of goat-antelope typically kept as livestock. It was domesticated from the wild goat of Southwest Asia and Eastern Europe. Goats are known for their hardy nature and ability to thrive in diverse environments. They can be found in many different habitats like the savanna, arid desert, scrub, mountain ranges and lush grasslands alike. Their adaptability makes them well-suited to various climates and terrains, allowing humans to rear them even in challenging conditions where other livestock may struggle. Although free-ranging, the area of use was nearly constant (95.44 ha) the size of herds varied (2–100 animals). Domestic goats can be considered dwellers of human-modified landscapes, foraging close to villages, in open areas where abundant plant species thrive.
The domestic goat has a wider geographical distribution than any other domestic herd animal and yet little is known of its ancestry. These adaptable creatures have successfully adapted to diverse climates and environments, which has contributed to their wide dispersal. They gradually spread throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. Eventually reached North America, South America, Australia and New Zealand. In Europe, domestic goats can be found in almost every country. From the mountainous regions of Switzerland to the Mediterranean landscapes of Greece and Spain, these animals have become an integral part of European culture and agriculture. Similarly, in Africa, goats are widespread across countries such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. Nearly 45% of the world's goat population resides in four countries of Asia including China, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, among which India owns the second-highest position in the world with 133.8 million goats and 23 well-recognized breeds.
There are three types of goats and they are the Domestic Goats (Capra Hircus) which are raised and bred on farms, the Wild goats (Capra genus) including ibex, markhors and turs and the Mountain Goats (Oreamnos americanus) which are wild goats that occupy the mountainous areas of northwest United States. However, the most common type and widespread of goats are the Domestic goats.
There are also three basic types or main breeds of Domestic goats:
Some producers focus on one kind of goat, while others may include all three in their operation. Meat & Dairy Goats are the two types that are most popular in our area. As for homesteaders looking for more milk for their dairy products, Saanen, Alpine, Toggenburg, Oberhasli and LaMancha goats are the more suitable options. However, their milk has low butterfat and protein. The Boer goats, Tennessee, Spanish, Rangeland and Kiko goats are the best goat breeds for meat. The two most common fibres produced are mohair and cashmere. Angora goats produce mohair. Cashmere is a type of fibre, not a breed. Cashmere fibre can be clipped from almost any goat other than Angora.
The most common type of domestic goat is the Alpine goat, which was originally developed in the French Alps but has since spread worldwide. Known for their hardy nature and excellent milk production, Alpine goats are medium to large-sized animals with a distinctive upright ear set. They typically have short hair that comes in various colours such as black, brown, grey, or white.
Domestic animals are chosen for their ability to breed in captivity and for their calm temperament. Goats are very brilliant curious animals. Their inquisitive nature is exemplified in their constant desire to explore and investigate anything unfamiliar that they come across. They communicate with each other by bleating. Mothers will often call to their young (kids) to ensure they stay close by. Related to the sheep, the goat is lighter in build, has horns on its head that arch backwards and the size can be from small to medium. It has a long beard on its chin and the skin of the goat contains fur or hair. They have four legs with hooves and a small tail.
Worldwide, the majority of domestic goats live in Asia. However, goats are found on every continent, except Antarctica. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, over 90% of goats are found in developing countries; Asia has the largest proportion of the world's goat population, followed by Africa.
When it comes to the diet and prey of goats, understanding their feeding habits is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Goats are herbivores, which means they eat only vegetation. They are ruminants, meaning they have a four-chambered stomach that allows them to digest rigid plant material efficiently. Their diet mainly consists of grasses, hay, leaves, shrubs, weeds, grains and even tree bark. This versatility makes goats excellent foragers that can graze on almost any type of vegetation. Their favourite food is grass, though mountain goats also eat mosses and plants. Domesticated goats can eat fresh or dried grass, tree foliage, shrubs, bushes and various other plants. Many domestic goats will also eat trash, house plants or any other items they find lying around. Most pet goats live on grasses, grains and hay. On average, a goat will eat between 2 to 4 pounds of grass or hay a day. Whole grains are best and include corn, wheat, and oats. Goats also love most vegetables and will readily snack on weeds or flowers growing nearby. They can go without water for longer than most other animals, except camels and giraffes. Some goats go into a water conservation mode if they fear the water is slow in coming.
In addition to vegetation, goats also enjoy consuming fruits and vegetables when available. This includes apples, carrots, lettuce and other leafy greens. However, it's important to note that while goats have a diverse palate, certain foods can be harmful to them if consumed in excess or the wrong form. For example, they should avoid consuming onions or avocados as these can be toxic to their digestive systems.
They are one of the cleanliest animals and are much more selective feeders than cows, sheep, pigs, swine and even dogs. Goats get their reputation for eating almost anything because they like to walk around and sample a wide variety of foods, as opposed to grazing a pasture like cows or sheep.
These exceptional creatures possess unique characteristics that set them apart from other livestock. Goats are highly sociable animals that prefer to live in groups called herds or flocks. They display a strong herd instinct and establish hierarchical structures within their groups. This social behaviour helps them survive in the wild by protecting them from predators such as wolves or coyotes. However, goats can also thrive under human care and easily adapt to living on farms or homesteads. They prefer the company of other goats but they will follow their owner and form close bonds with them, hence their continuing popularity. Social behaviour in goats is similar to that in sheep and horns also play a major factor in caprine social rankings. Goats also hide early in life but, unlike cows, spend more time away from the nannies for the first 6 wk than for the next 6 wk. Goats are known for their curious nature and nimble climbing abilities. They are usually afraid of water and absolutely will not wade in the water. They spend much of their time eating food and chewing their cud. They possess a unique digestive system that allows them to thrive on a wide range of vegetation - from grasses to shrubs - making them well-suited for various landscapes. Goats are more aggressive and inquisitive than sheep and tend to demonstrate dominance within a social grouping more than sheep. They display their dominance by lowering their head and pointing their horns at the subordinate animal.
Goats are very gregarious, prefer to stay close together, and individuals are rarely seen apart from the group. Domestic goats were generally kept in herds that wandered on hills or other grazing areas, often tended by goatherds who were frequently children or adolescents, similar to the more widely known shepherd. These methods of herding are still used today. In goats that have been isolated from their social group, cortisol concentrations are elevated, which reflects an increase in emotional stress. Male goats, called bucks or billys, usually have a beard. Females are called does or nannys and immature goats are called kids. Goats are emotional animals and they communicate their feelings through voices, postures, and the expression on goats' faces. If a goat is distressed or excited, nearby goats will read this emotion and be affected by it. Fear or anticipation can quickly spread through the herd this way.
These animals have a unique reproductive system that allows them to breed throughout the year, making them highly efficient in multiplying their population. Reproduction in goats is described as seasonal; the onset and length of the breeding season are dependent on various factors such as latitude, climate, breed, physiological stage, presence of the male, breeding system and specifically photoperiod. Goats like to breed in the fall, from late August to early January. The shorter days can signify to the animals that it's time to get busy if they want those spring babies.
Goes into heat, called estrus, roughly every 21 days. Estrus or heat, is the period in which the doe will stand and allow the buck to breed her. They can breed while in estrus for 12-36 hours. During this time they display various behavioral changes like increased vocalization and restlessness. The gestation length in goats is 145–155 days (average 150 days) and can be affected by breed, litter weight, environment and parity. Generally, first-kidding does have one or two kids and in subsequent kiddings, triplets and quadruplets are not uncommon.
Once born, baby goats or kids are incredibly endearing with their playful nature and fluffy appearance. A baby goat is called a kid. A nanny can have a single kid or twins. The kids can walk and run just minutes after their birth and they start exploring their surroundings while instinctively searching for their mother's milk. Nursing is crucial during the first few weeks as it provides essential nutrients required for growth and development. Kids typically nurse until they are around eight to twelve weeks old when they begin transitioning to solid food. They rely on their mothers for only a few months, following which they can graze and feed on grass and leaves. Goats have a life expectancy of 8-12 years much like that of dogs. But domestic goats can live between 15 to 18 years.
It is better to breed the female once a year. Some goats can be made to kid twice in 18 months. The goats reach their maximum efficiency at the age of five to seven years. In exceptional cases, they continue to be serviceable even up to 12 years and in rare cases up to 14 years.
Generally, healthy does are expected to live 11 to 12 years. If a goat is still being bred after age 10, the likelihood of a pregnancy-related death is more likely. Does or female goat that retires earlier in life have a longer life expectancy? Wethers live longer than bucks with an 11 to 16-year life span.
The major and primary predators for goats are coyotes and dogs but other predators such as birds of prey, bobcats and foxes can be a problem in some areas. For younger animals, foxes, bobcats, vultures or even raccoons can be problems as well. One of the most notorious predators that prey on domestic goats is the cunning coyote. With its keen senses and ability to adapt to various environments, the coyote is known for its stealthy attacks on unsuspecting herds, making them a constant concern for goat owners. These dangers pose significant challenges for goat farmers and breeders who strive to protect these animals from harm. Killing these predators in high numbers will not solve the problem and will create an imbalance in nature. While predators remain a constant threat to domestic goats’ survival, other non-predatory factors also contribute to their vulnerability. Diseases like scrapie, brucellosis, foot rot, and pneumonia can severely impact goat health and productivity.
The major threats to wild goats include destruction and degradation of habitat, poaching, habitat loss due to logging and competition with domestic livestock for food resources also human threats include hunting, development and winter recreation in formerly inaccessible habitats. Another formidable threat to domestic goats comes in the form of feral dogs. These packs of untamed canines may have once been someone's pet but now roam freely in search of food. Their sharp teeth and powerful jaws make them capable of inflicting severe injuries or even causing fatalities when they attack defenceless goats. The global gene pool of domestic goats (livestock) is at risk of disappearing due to increased animal husbandry systems that use a limited number of breeds. The biggest genetic loss has occurred in Europe.
There are approximately over one billion goats worldwide, according to estimates from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The global goat population has more than doubled in the last four decades, due in part to increasing demand for goat products. 45% of Goats population is mainly found in Asia the highest number being in China, followed by India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The rising popularity of goat farming can be attributed to several factors, including their adaptability to harsh climates, low maintenance costs and multiple uses in various industries. This boom in goat farming not only provides a sustainable source of income for farmers but also presents numerous opportunities for the agriculture sector.
One reason behind the increasing population number of domestic goats is their remarkable ability to thrive in diverse environments. Unlike other livestock animals such as cattle or sheep, goats are more adaptable and can withstand extreme weather conditions and limited dietary options. This resilience makes them an ideal choice for farmers residing in regions prone to droughts or with limited access to resources.
With a rich history dating back thousands of years, goats have played a significant role in human civilization. The goat is a useful domestic animal which was tamed by humans for a very long time. They provide substances in the form of food and clothing.
Visitors to the zoo may not expect to see domestic goats among the exotic wildlife, but these charming creatures have found a place in many zoos worldwide. Unlike their wild relatives, domestic goats exhibit unique behaviours that can be both entertaining and educational for zoo patrons. Visitors can learn about the various breeds of goats, their behaviours, and their unique characteristics while observing them in a controlled setting. From their playful leaping and head-butting antics to their knack for problem-solving, domestic goats bring a touch of rustic charm to zoo exhibits.
One interesting aspect of housing domestic goats in zoos is the opportunity for visitors to interact with them up close. Some zoos offer feeding stations where guests can hand-feed the goats and even participate in grooming sessions. This hands-on experience allows visitors to develop a deeper connection with these gentle animals and gain a greater appreciation for their role in agriculture and sustainable living practices. By showcasing domestic goats alongside more traditional zoo animals, zoos can highlight the diversity of life on Earth and promote awareness of often overlooked species.
When it comes to the classification and evolution of domestic goats, a fascinating journey awaits. The goat is a member of the Bovidae family and the tribe Caprini which also includes domestic cattle, antelopes and wild buffaloes. They are further classified into the Capra genus, along with wild goat species such as the bezoar ibex and markhor. The goat is also closely related to sheep as both belong to the same subfamily, Caprinae. They are closely related to sheep and share a common ancestor. The goat or domestic goat (Capra hircus) is a domesticated species of goat-antelope typically kept as livestock. It was domesticated from the wild goat (C. aegagrus) of Southwest Asia and Eastern Europe.
Domestic goats are believed to have descended from the wild goat species known as Bezoar ibex, which is native to areas in Asia Minor and the Middle East. This evolution from wild to domesticated goats occurred approximately 10,000 years ago. However, other wild Capra species are widely distributed and many of them can hybridize with domestic goats. Domestic goats can be further classified into various breeds based on their characteristics such as size, coat colour, horn shape and milk production abilities. Some popular breeds include the Nubian, Saanen, Boer, Angora, Nigerian Dwarf, American Pygmy, Beetal, Barbari, Jamunapari, Myotonic, LaMancha and Fainting Goat. Each breed has unique traits specific to its geographical origin and purpose of breeding.
The relationship between domestic goats and humans dates back thousands of years, with a rich history of mutual dependence and companionship. Goats have been an integral part of human societies, providing milk, meat, and fibre for clothing. In return, humans have provided shelter, protection, and care for their goat companions.
Interestingly, recent research has shown that goats are highly intelligent animals with complex social structures. They are capable of forming strong bonds with their human counterparts and can even recognize individual faces. This deep level of connection highlights the emotional intelligence of goats and challenges traditional perceptions of them as mere livestock. In addition to their practical uses, goats also hold a special place in human culture and folklore. They are often seen as symbols of vitality and abundance in many societies.
Furthermore, the therapeutic benefits of interacting with goats have gained recognition in recent years. From goat yoga to animal-assisted therapy programs, the presence of these gentle creatures has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being in humans. This unique bond between domestic goats and humans serves as a testament to the profound impact animals can have on our lives beyond their practical utility.
Domestic goats have long been a vital part of human civilizations, providing milk, meat and fibre for thousands of years. However, their conservation status is often overlooked in the face of more iconic and endangered species. The truth is that domestic goats play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and sustainable agriculture worldwide.
Despite being one of the most widely distributed livestock species on the planet, domestic goats face numerous threats to their conservation. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural expansion poses a significant challenge for goat populations. Additionally, competition with invasive species can further disrupt their natural habitats. Climate change also plays a role in altering the distribution patterns of goat populations as shifting weather patterns affect grazing lands and water sources. Furthermore, indiscriminate hunting by humans seeking bushmeat or trophy kills has led to population declines in some areas.
Although domestic goats and domestic sheep may look similar at first glance, several key differences between these two animals set them apart.