Rocky Mt. Goat

		SIZE

		HEIGHT:	3-3.5 ft.
		LENGTH:	4-5 ft.
		WEIGHT:	100-300 lb.

		BREEDING

		MATURITY:	2.5 years.
		MATING:	Oct.-Dec.
		GESTATION:	7 to 8 months.
		# OF YOUNG :	1-2 kids.

		LIFESTYLE

		HABIT:	Primarily diurnal. Usually seen in groups of 10 and fewer.
		DIET:	Feeds on high elevation vegetation and grasses and shrubs.
		LIFESPAN:	12 years in the wild.

		SCIENTIFIC NAME

		FAMILY:	Classified as "Oreamnos americanus" Similar species: Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep and White Sheep.

		GENERAL INFORMATION

		This blunt, square looking animal has a narrow head with slender, black, shiny horns rising in a backward curve to a length of 10-12 inches. The coat is white and on the chin is a double beard of long hair. This animal is sure-footed and agile due to its hooves with cushioned skid-proof pads for grip. The mountain goat lives in rocky mountainous areas above the timberline throughout parts of North America. British Columbia's population is by far the largest at approximately 100,000. This animal feeds on alpine grasses and flowers to almost any tree and shrub. The rutting season occurs between November and early January and the young (often twins) is born in May or June. The greatest cause of death for these mountain dwellers is accidents and in the winter when the availability of food is decreased, they are more susceptible to disease, parasites, predators and accidents.

"In July 2008 our family had the pleasure of visiting Bear Country USA. Every part of our visit was thoroughly enjoyable. The staff were friendly, informative and helpful. Our children loved the close up views of all the animals; and have vowed when they are grown with families of their own, they will bring their own children back to Bear Country USA. Spectacular - Keep up the good work! "

The Caldwell Family
Winnipeg, Manitoba