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 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 learn about the goat adaptations, click here.

To return home, 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