Rocky Mountain Goats
Rock climbing never looked this easy
With cloven hooves and two toes that spread wide for balance, Rocky Mountain goats are climbing champions, able to reach precipitous heights and scale narrow ledges. They have long, warm coats to keep them warm in their mountainous homes, and even grow distinctive beards. This species lives in small herds, largely made up of females (nannies) and their young (kids), while males (billies) live alone or with a few other males until mating season.
- IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (at relatively low risk of extinction)
- Type: Mammal
- Habitat: Rocky Mountain range of Canada and the United States
- Diet: Herbivore – grasses, mosses, and flowering plants
- Size: 3.5 feet at the shoulder
- Weight: 100 to 300 pounds
facts about our animals
Fun Facts about Rocky Mountain Goats
A Rocky Mountain goat’s hooves have rough pads for better grip.
They can jump almost 12 feet in a single leap.
Both males and females have horns.
They are the largest mammal in high altitude environments.
Rocky Mountain goats are more closely related to bighorn sheep, Japanese serow, and the musk ox than they are to domestic goats.
After 22 months, you can tell a Rocky Mountain goat’s age by counting the rings on its horns.
Donate
How you can help
Your donation makes a world of difference. With support for animal care, conservation programs, and education, you’re making the world wilder.
Meet Our Animals
Wild Canada
Plan Your Visit
Get close to wildlife
It’s time to make some memories. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable day at the zoo.