What is a Goat?

Goats are the smallest members of the Bovidae family, which includes antelopes, sheep, and their close relative, the cow. Goats are one of the oldest, hardiest, and most versatile animal domesticated by humans for milking, mowing, pulling a cart, and providing meat and hides. They are extremely resilient and prolific animals, providing a host of uses to humans.

Goat Anatomy

Goats are four-legged mammalian animals. They have a long, flexible neck, short legs and cloven hooves. They have cylindrical, hollow horns, which can grow to be very long on some breeds. Goats can be long-haired or short-haired, depending on the breed. Goats have long ears that point forward; the tops of their ears have a black lining. Their coats can range in color from white to yellow, black, brown, or spotted. Goats have a nose that is ridged at the top and blunted at the bottom.

Goat Behavior

Goats are very social animals, preferring to live in small groups in the wild. They are known as herd animals and communicate through sound, sight, and smell. Goats are very curious and active animals, with some breeds being so frisky that they can easily escape enclosures if not watched carefully. Goats can also be quite stubborn, but with proper training, they can learn commands and tasks. Goats are browsers, meaning they browse on vegetation, instead of grazing on grass.