IBERIAN GOAT
Capra pyrenaica
DESCRIPTION
The Iberian Goat, or Capra pyrenaica, is a wild goat species native to the Iberian Peninsula. It is characterized by its robust body, long legs, and distinctive curved horns, which can grow up to 1 meter in length in males. These goats are agile climbers, often found in steep, rocky terrains, and they exhibit a range of colors from brown to gray, with lighter underbellies.
FUN FACTS
- Iberian Goats are known for their incredible climbing abilities, often seen navigating steep cliffs and rocky outcrops with ease
- This agility not only helps them escape predators but also allows them to access food sources that are out of reach for many other herbivores
- | The species has a unique social structure, where females and their young typically form the core of the herd, while males may join during the breeding season
- This dynamic helps ensure the survival of the young while allowing males to compete for mates during specific times of the year
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight50-100 kg
Average Length1.2-1.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — they typically form herds that can vary in size.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonAutumn (September-November)
- Habitat
- Iberian Goats inhabit mountainous and rocky areas, often preferring steep slopes and rugged terrains. They are well-adapted to their environment, utilizing cliffs and ledges for shelter and safety.
- Biomes
- Mountain, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- The Iberian Goat is native to the Iberian Peninsula, specifically in regions of Spain and Portugal.
- Continent
- Europe
- Countries
- Spain, Portugal
- Diet
- Iberian Goats are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses, shrubs, and other vegetation. They are known to be selective feeders, often choosing the most nutritious plants available.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, shrubs
- Social Structure
- group — they typically form herds that can vary in size.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
LC
50-100 kg
Weight
1.2-1.5 m
Length
0.8-1.0 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- varies from brown to gray with lighter underbellies
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are larger with more prominent horns than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 150 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Autumn (September-November)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Iberian Goats has fluctuated due to habitat loss and hunting pressures.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 10,000-15,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, hunting, and competition with domestic livestock. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect their habitats and manage populations.
- Conservation Program
- Various conservation programs are in place, including habitat restoration and legal protection measures.
- Predators
- Wolves, lynxes, and eagles are known predators of the Iberian Goat.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Iberian Goats use their agility and climbing skills to escape predators, often retreating to steep cliffs.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon