Wild goat

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The wild goat (Capra aegagrus) is a species of goat that is native to Eastern Europe, Western Asia, and parts of Central Asia. It is the ancestor of the domestic goat (Capra hircus).

Description

Wild goats are medium-sized ungulates with a robust body, long legs, and a short tail. Males are larger than females and have prominent, backward-curving horns. The coat color varies from light brown to gray, with a lighter underbelly. Males have a distinctive beard and a mane that extends along the back.

Habitat

Wild goats inhabit mountainous regions, preferring rocky terrains and cliffs where they can find shelter and escape from predators. They are highly adapted to steep and rugged landscapes, which provide them with both food and protection.

Behavior

Wild goats are social animals that live in herds. These herds are typically composed of females and their young, while males tend to be solitary or form small bachelor groups. During the breeding season, males compete for access to females through displays of strength and dominance.

Diet

Wild goats are herbivores, feeding primarily on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. They are well-adapted to their arid environments and can survive on sparse vegetation.

Reproduction

The breeding season for wild goats occurs in the late autumn. After a gestation period of about 150 days, females give birth to one or two kids. The young are able to stand and follow their mother shortly after birth.

Conservation status

The wild goat is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, some populations are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domestic livestock.

Related species

The wild goat is closely related to other species in the genus Capra, including the ibex, the markhor, and the tahr.

Domestication

The wild goat is the progenitor of the domestic goat, which was one of the first animals to be domesticated by humans. This domestication process began around 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent.

See also

• Domestic goat
• Ibex
• Markhor
• Tahr

References

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