A Glance at Goats

Goats are believed to have originated in Eastern Europe and Southwest Asia. They were one of the first domesticated animals. In fact, Neolithic farmers began to herd them to have easy access to their milk and meat. They came to the New World with early colonists before cattle did, because they provided similar resources but didn't take up as much cargo space. There are about 300 distinct breeds of goats.

Goats are ruminants, meaning they have four stomachs. Most females, called does or nannies, have an udder with two teats. The exception are the  Boer goat, which can have up to eight. By comparison, cows only have four. Goats have the reputation of eating almost anything, and landowners sometimes use them to keep an area clear, because they like to graze.

These animals are very intelligent and inquisitive. They have great balance and are able to climb easily. They have even been known to climb trees. Due to their curiousness and agility, they are notorious for being escape artists, and are hard to keep penned or fenced if they want out. Most goats live for about 17 years.

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