Capra hircus was first domesticated from the feral

goat 8-10,000 years ago in the highland areas

of western Asia.  They were the first of the

ruminants, or animals with four-chambered

stomachs, to be domesticated and have thrived in

their domestic lifestyle since. As domestic animals,

they frequently live in similar habitats as

other domestic animals such as cows, sheep and

pigs.

    For more information on the goat’s four-chambered

        stomach, see Nutrition.

                                                                  Of all the domestic animals, goats have the largest

                                                                  ecological range. Domestic goats can live in areas

                                                                  ranging from tropical rain forests to deserts, but

                                                                  typically goats live in temperate or tropical forests

                                                                  and grasslands. Feral goats usually live in rugged

                                                                  mountain areas and alpine meadows. Goats are

                                                                  grazing animals, so by nature they must live in areas

                                                                  that have vegetation. However, due to adaptations,

                                                                  goats can survive in areas with sparse vegetation,

                                                                  while other grazing animals cannot.

                                                                    For more information on goat adaptations, see Adaptations

As they spend much of their day grazing in fields, goats are very susceptible to predation by large carnivores. Because of this Capra hircus exhibits instinctual herding in the wild and in captivity are most comfortable when they are in groups of two or more. Herds are typically formed of 5-20 individuals, but can include up to 100.

    For more information on predation, see Interactions with Other Species

Because of its domestication, Capra hircus has spread to almost

every region of the globe. In captivity, the goat requires a few

necessities to survive comfortably. With clean, ventilated shelter,

15 square feet of bedded sleeping area and 25 square feet to

exercise, along with some space to graze away from predators,

a domestic goat will flourish. The typical life span of a domestic

goat is between 10 and 15 years, but some have lived to be 22.

To return home, click here.

To learn about the goat adaptations, click here.

Map of Western Asia. Goats were first domesticated in the highland areas.

Image from University of Texas Library Online

Goats living in the mountains.

Photo by Robbie’s Photo Art

A herd of goats crossing a bridge.

Photo by 2-Dog Farm