Vienna in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
African Pygmy Goat
Capra hircus
Where in the World? Originated in West Africa
Habitat: Domestic farm animal
Lifespan: 15+ years
Diet: Grasses, leaves
Gestation: 145-155 days
# Young Born: 1-4
In West Africa, pygmy goats have supplied milk to villagers for thousands of years.
Pygmy goats are excellent climbers. The hair between their hooves provides the necessary friction to give them traction on smooth surfaces.
Unlike other domestic goats that reproduce once a year, a pygmy goat gives birth twice a year, usually to twins.
These good-natured goats were exported to Europe and the U.S. in 1959 for zoos. Since then, they have become popular as pets, too.
Status in the Wild: Common
Erected by Roer's Zoofari.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Animals • Industry & Commerce • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1959.
Location. 38° 58.326′ N, 77°
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Soay Sheep (here, next to this marker); Kune Kune Pig (a few steps from this marker); Sacred Ibis (within shouting distance of this marker); White Faced Capuchin (within shouting distance of this marker); Budgerigar (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named African Pygmy Goat (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Fallow Deer (about 400 feet away); In Memory of Mack S. "Jack" Crippen, Jr. (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Vienna.
Credits. This page was last revised on April 9, 2022. It was originally submitted on April 9, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 70 times since then and 13 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 9, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
