Hey everyone,
I actually managed to find some time and write about the mountain goats i encountered on several occasions in the Rocky Mountains.
First off: There are a couple well known locations where you can find mountain goats easily in Colorado. The animals you see there are used to human presence and are not shy at all.
Please be reminded that they are wild animals anyway, they might charge at any time when they feel threatened.
Please be respectful, keep your distance and PLEASE do not feed them!
Now let´s go:
In general, mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus), aka Rocky Mountain goats, get to live for appr. 10-15 years, they grow up to 1m (good 3ft) shoulder height, reach a weight of up to 140kg (ca. 300lb) Both sexes have horns.
They usually stay in a certain area and move throughout the day depending on the needs of the herd like climate, food sources and nutritional requirements.
They are excellent climbers and their fine & dense wool coats let them withstand really low temperatures up to -40°C (-50°F) and high winds.
They usually roam above the treeline up to altitudes of above 4000m (13-14.000ft).
Kids are born in spring until roughly May-June and they stay with their mothers (Nannies) closely in the first year. They are absolutely adorable to watch :-)
Herds might consist of appr. 50 individuals and the Mountain goats Conservation Status is Least Concern.
Thats it for today. Feedback on the Post & Photos is highly appreciated, please let me know if this was to long, or too short, or if you´d like more Info on Camera setting, etc...
best regards
Denis
