The Irish Goat, which is Ireland’s native landrace breed, is now critically endangered and can only be found in remote mountain ranges where they roam in feral herds. This particular breed was the only goat breed in Ireland for a long time until the beginning of the twentieth century when so-called ‘improved’ breeds were introduced. Unfortunately, interbreeding with imported domestic goats has led to the loss of many of the original characteristics and adaptations of the Irish Goat.
Despite arriving in Ireland about 5,000 years ago, this breed was able to adapt naturally to the Irish landscape. Goats were among the first species of livestock to be domesticated and have been farmed in Ireland since the Neolithic times. They have a distinct way of moving due to their height to leg length ratio, resulting in a small, stocky goat with short legs and a long body. Additionally, their ears are small and in a pricked position, while their impressive horns are large, corrugated, and bend over the shoulders in unique ways. These goats always have beards and lack tassels. The male beard blends into their rough and thick long-haired coat that hangs down to the belly line. The Irish Goat is a traditional Irish breed that serves a dual-purpose, being used for both meat and milk. Due to its critical endangerment, it may survive only in feral populations.
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