Species: Capra aegagrus hircus
Color/Pattern: Varies
Height: 30 inches*
Weight: 135 pounds*
Region of Origin: France
With a winning combination of friendliness, adaptability, and high milk production, Alpine goats are tough to beat. The surefootedness that evolved over time on the mountain slopes of France inspired a Frenchman to haul 22 hardy animals to the United States in 1922; today, all members of the breed—now officially recognized in the US—descend directly from those original caprine migrants. The medium to large animals boast a striking range of coat colors and patterns and are known for their spunky individual personalities, boundless curiosity, abundant milk output, and long lactation.
*Height and weight are averages.