If you are planning to hike any high-elevation mountain ranges this summer, there’s a chance you may encounter a mountain goat. Here are some important safety tips to help keep you safe when recreating around mountain goats and other wildlife.

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Utah is home to roughly 1,500 mountain goats located across the state. These majestic creatures are primarily found in high-elevation mountain areas with rugged, rocky alpine terrain. The largest herds in the state are located in the Uinta Mountains and in the Tushar Mountains near Beaver. Additionally, smaller herds can be found scattered throughout the Wasatch Mountain Range, including on Mount Timpanogos, Cascade Mountain, Provo Peak, and in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

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Mountain goats, known for their ability to traverse steep cliffsides, primarily feed on grasses, flowering plants, shrubs, and mossy lichen. They are adapted to snowy conditions and high elevations, growing long, thick hair in winter which they shed in spring.

Rusty Robinson, from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, explains, "Mountain goats don’t have hard hooves like other big game animals; their more rubbery hooves help them grip rocks." Both male (billies) and female (nannies) goats grow horns, with billies typically larger in size.

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During breeding season (rut) in November, males become more aggressive, while females exhibit aggression when protecting their kids born in late May. Nannies and kids often form large nursery herds in summer, grazing in meadow areas.

For hikers encountering mountain goats, it is crucial to maintain at least 150 feet distance from mountain goats. They may charge if they feel threatened. If a goat blocks your path, turn around and retreat rather than approaching them. Keep dogs leashed and under control, as mountain goats can react aggressively to them. If a goat approaches, back away slowly. Make loud noises and wave arms to deter it. Check with local land management agencies for trail-specific information on aggressive goat behavior. Never feed or allow goats to lick you; they can injure with their horns.

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Robinson emphasizes, "Mountain goats can impale you with their horns, so always maintain distance and avoid risky situations." If needed, cut short hikes rather than risking encounters.

For more safety tips, visit the Wild Aware Utah website.

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