Wild goats find 'paradise' on Montserrat

Wild goats have found their "little paradise" on Montserrat, and the figures prove it.

30 years ago, the species was reintroduced to the unique, jagged mountain range about 30 km inland from Barcelona, with specimens from the Tortosa-Beseit mountain range.

Since then, their population has grown from around 20 individuals to over 400.

The latest census, conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DARP) and Rural Agents in late December, recorded 439 goats, nearly 40 more than last year.

Jordi Carrasco, head of the Rural Agents in Bages, told the Catalan News Agency (ACN) that the goats have found "a very suitable habitat" in Montserrat.

They have no natural predators in the area, so it is important to monitor their population to prevent conflict with human activity in the mountains, such as climbing.

Census

Rural Agents and agriculture department rangers search the mountain on foot with binoculars and count the goats as they spot them, while also assessing their age and sex. Drones equipped with thermal cameras are used to reach hard to reach-areas.

The latest census took place on December 24, recording 439 individuals, up from 401 the previous year. Both male and female populations continue to rise, while the number of kids remains stable.

Though the counts are "very accurate," it is impossible to count every single individual, so it is estimated that the actual number may exceed 439.

'On Montserrat, the goats live like queens'

The wild goats have found their ideal habitat on Montserrat.

Carolina Garcia, a technician from the department of agriculture, explains they have abundant food and "a lot of peace because they have no predators."

The climate is very favorable for them too. "The goats live like queens on Montserrat," she says.

The mountain's unique jagged forms make for an ideal refuge. for the goats. "It’s their comfort zone, where they seek safety from danger," Garcia says.

Hunting: Controlling the goat population

While the goats play an important role in fire prevention by eating a lot of vegetation, Carrasco explains that overpopulation can also cause problems.

Montserrat Natural Park is a popular spot for hikers and climbers, so "too many goats could lead to conflicts."

Since the animals have no natural predators to control their population, a regulated hunting program was initiated in 2004.

Over the last two decades about a thousand goats have been culled.

Hunting permits are first granted to local hunters, then to non-locals, subject to payment of fees.

Hunters are always accompanied by a guard or agent who are responsible for deciding which animals to cull.

The Department of Agriculture states that given the geography of Montserrat, the only feasible method for controlling the wild goat population is through hunting.

Although other measures have been considered, such as capturing live specimens to repopulate other areas, the challenge of finding safe zones to sedate and transport the animals without harm or death "has so far made this impossible."