I am not a farmer at all (actually very nerdy, indoorsy person), but that doesn’t stop me from loving goats. Here are some things I’ve learned over the years about these fascinating animals and why I think they are feminists.
1. Goats can eat nearly anything.
Goats will even eat poison ivy and thorns. But not tin cans! (they just like licking the glue from the labels)
2. Goats can see nearly everything
Their rectangular pupils give them nearly 360 degrees of peripheral vision. Find out why...
3. Goats climb nearly vertical cliffs.
I think this speaks for itself.
4. Goats discovered coffee!
According to Ethiopian folklore, a shepherd noticed his goats got hyper after eating coffee beans.
5. Goats are very emotionally sophisticated.
They need companionship and discipline to function well. Additionally, domesticated goats can be very empathetic and will grieve if they lose a friend.
6. Goats are feminists!!
Some female goats have beards and some don't, it's just a genetic variation. Goat society treats their beaded sisters equally even though this is a feature of most male goats. Interestingly, when humans bring female goats to be shown at competitions, their beards must be shorn to compete. How much we can learn from our livestock friends!
Unlike many animals, goats have a roughly equal power dynamic while mating. While the buck, (male) often initiates mating rituals, the doe (female) has the right to reject his advances and often does to the frustration of many farmers. Before mating occurs, both parties will consent. Goat society does not have rape culture!
Finally, goat society has a matriarchal structure, except during the brief mating season. The matriarch is referred to as the "queen", but it's not a monarchy; the toughest female physically fights her way to the top. She also protects the herd, by teaching younger goats which plants are poisonous. A true leader in every respect! Goats have been head-butting glass ceilings for tens of thousands of years.
Humans have a lot to live up to in the humble goat!
