The findings show the old Irish goat is genetically differentiated from modern, commercial breeds. Photograph: Padraic FogartyThe expression “old goat”, often applied with more fondness than ire, has some basis in fact – at least as far as the old Irish goat is concerned. The findings show the old Irish goat is genetically differentiated from modern, commercial breeds and has specially adapted to the Irish landscape, possessing unique, hardy characteristics. Known historically as “an gabhar fiáin” – the wild goat – the old Irish goat is deeply rooted in Irish folklore. “This research is a huge milestone for the old Irish goat, and provides powerful scientific validation of what local communities and conservationists have long believed – that the old Irish goat represents a living piece of our ancient heritage, said Sinead Keane, from the Old Irish Goat Society.

Source: The Irish Times February 26, 2026 09:01 UTC