Domestic goat

Latin Name
Capra hircus

Class
Mammals

Order
Artiodactyla

Description

Goats range in size and coloration based on breed. The goats on display at the Farm-in-the-Zoo are La Mancha, Oberhasli and Alpine breeds.


 
Range

Domesticated around the world


Status

Thriving


Habitat

Domestic environments-grasslands, fields and other pastures provided by keepers.


Niche

Goats are closely related to their barnyard peers-sheep. There are more than three hundred breeds of goat. A multi-chambered stomach enables goats to digest tough plants. They are great foragers and will nibble on just about anything.


Life History

Female goats are known as does or nannies. Males are bucks or billies. Offspring are kids, born with nubby horns and playful demeanors.


Special Adaptations

One of the oldest domesticated species, goats have been raised for their milk, meat and skins for thousands of years.


Lincoln Park Zoo Exhibit

Farm-in-the-Zoo