DID YOU KNOW…
- Mountain goats are not in the same genus as goats. In the bovidae family, mountain goats are associated with antelopes, gazelles and cattle.
- In the high-altitude environments, sometimes above 13,000 ft, they are the largest mammal. The high elevation protects mountain goats from predators.
- Just shy of their two year birthday, you can tell the age of a mountain goat by counting the rings on their horns. Not unlike trees!
- The average lifespan of a mountain goat is 9 to 12 years.
- Nannies can be protective of their territory and food and will fight other nannies. In the mating season, males will fight with each other to mate with a female. Mountain goats may also become hostile towards humans.
- Mountain goats are only found in North America.
It’s always cool to learn about the wildlife that calls Montana home, and knowing more about the animals you are hunting can help you during your hunt. Just remember, even if you come across a mountain goat, and you are admiring their beauty–it isn’t worth getting super close for that selfie or picture. Try and avoid close contact with any wildlife you encounter. They are WILD animals and most likely do not want you to pet them…hence the term WILDlife.
