Six Things You Need to Know About Goats

If you follow our work you know that we LOVE goats at Heifer International. And can you blame us? Goats are adorable, friendly, hilarious AND they can help end hunger and poverty for struggling families around the world. Here are a few facts about one of the world’s cutest ruminants: the goat!

1. Goats are one of the world’s oldest domesticated animals

Experts estimate that humans first domesticated goats anywhere from 9,000 – 11,000 years ago.

He's probably making that face because he's been eating coffee.

2. Goats can recognize each other’s voices

Mother goats can recognize their babies’ unique bleats soon after they are born and vice versa. Additionally, studies have shown that young goats pick up accents from other members of their herd as they grow up.
 

3. Goats don’t eat cans OR clothes

Much like human toddlers, goats investigate things using their mouth and will gum (not eat) pretty much everything they come across. In reality, goats are quite picky eaters and will refuse to snack on anything but the most nutritious foods.

4. Goats are extremely agile

Though they don’t look particularly athletic, goats have incredible balance and agility. Not only can many goats leap up to 5 ft. in the air, they can easily scale steep cliffs and even climb trees!

5. Goats are responsible for the discovery of life itself coffee

According to an Ethiopian legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating properties of the coffee berry after he noticed that his goats (bless their beautiful hides) had extra spring in their step after munching on the plant. He tried some of the berries himself and the rest is caffeinated history.

6. Goats make the best gift

Donating Heifer goats in honor of friends and family is an easy, fun and meaningful way to celebrate the holidays! Meanwhile, that goat will go on to help a family out of poverty. It's a win-win! 


Bonus Fact: A goat stampede is the cutest thing you’ll ever see. Period. 

Would you like to spread the goat love? Give the gift of a goat to a family in need (and learn a few more facts about these amazing creatures) today!