Field guide
Feral goat
Feral goats are widespread and highly destructive to native vegetation and regenerating bush. Because they browse young trees, landowners and DOC both actively control them.
Capra hircus
Where you’ll find them
Goats hold to steep, broken country and rocky faces, and are usually in groups. Often visible at distance, which makes them a common first quarry for new hunters.
Dogs and 1080
Goat country frequently overlaps with 1080 operations. Check before bringing a dog.
Check 1080 operationsBefore you go
Seasons, permits, firearms rules and access conditions differ by region and by land status, and they change. We don’t publish them — check with the authority for the land you’re on: DOC for public conservation land, your regional council for pest rules, and the landowner for private land.