(Capra hircus)
of Adult:
Weight: 44-60 lbs
This small goat species has course hair, which ranges from white to black. Some are caramel in color. Both sexes have horns, but males are longer and thicker for display during courtship. They also have a beard of longer hairs extending from their chin, which tend to be longer on males.
The kids are born fully covered with hair and are able to walk after a few shaky minutes. Within hours they are full of energy and race around the pasture, skipping and jumping. Often the smallest kids will jump on mother's back for a fun ride as she nibbles grass.
African Pigmy Goats, originally from Africa, were introduced by whalers who found that they were easily transported, and were a great source of milk and meat on long voyages. They are still used today for that purpose. They are very social animals that use group strength to protect themselves from predators, usually large carnivores. When threatened, the herd will form a ring with the pregnant nannies and kids in the center. Females will actually simulate pregnancy in order to gain extra protection from the herd.
Pigmy goats love to eat plants that other bovines avoid, such as ragweed, poison ivy, and even fallen leaves. Pigmy Goats are very popular pets in rural areas.