Urgent Alert: Mountain Goats Spotted Grazing Near Glacier Park

UPDATE: A herd of nine mountain goats, including two kids, was spotted grazing near the Hermit Meadows campground in Glacier National Park on September 1, 2023. This rare sighting is drawing attention from both park visitors and wildlife enthusiasts, underscoring the unique beauty of these alpine creatures.

These stunning animals, often mistaken for true goats, actually belong to the mountain antelope family, captivating onlookers with their acrobatic antics along steep cliffs and rocky ridgelines. Just a couple of hours hike from Rogers Pass, the campground serves as a prime location for witnessing their daily activities.

The herd was seen clambering through lush green meadows, showcasing their brilliant white woolly coats and striking keratin horns glistening in the sun. Observers reported the nannies relaxing while their young ones played, demonstrating the social dynamics of these majestic animals.

Mountain goats typically weigh between 60 and 100 kilograms over their 12 to 14-year lifespan, thriving on a diet rich in grass, lichen, and flowering plants. British Columbia is home to an astonishing 50 percent of the global mountain goat population, with Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks being pivotal habitats for these creatures.

Visitors are reminded to remain vigilant while driving along the nearby Trans-Canada Highway, as mountain goats have been known to venture down for salt on the road. Motorists should exercise caution to avoid collisions, as these animals face numerous natural threats from predators like cougars and bears, as well as environmental hazards such as rockslides.

Despite these challenges, mountain goats possess thick undercoats that allow them to withstand frigid temperatures as low as -50°C. Their resilience is a testament to their adaptability in one of Canada’s most rugged terrains.

Park officials encourage anyone who sees mountain goats at Hermit Meadows to share their experiences with Parks Canada at [email protected]. By doing so, visitors can contribute to ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting these iconic animals and their habitats.

As the summer season winds down, sightings of mountain goats continue to captivate nature lovers and remind us of the delicate balance between wilderness and human activity. Stay tuned for more updates on wildlife in Glacier National Park as the situation develops.