CHAPTER XV 
GOATS 
THE goat, Capra spp., Bovide, is a genus of quadrupeds, 
very closely allied tothe sheep. It seems probable that the 
domestic goat is descended from the Persian pasang (Capra 
egagrus), which is the most characteristic species of the 
wild goats. The types of domestic goats that have been 
developed under their long period of domestication are very 
numerous, but comparatively few are of economic value in 
America. Perhaps the Angora (Capra angorensis) is the 
best known in this country, although the interest in milch 
goats is increasing. The zodlogical origin of the Angora 
goat is not known. The prevailing opinion seems to be 
that the foundation stock is some derivative of Capra 
egagrus, perhaps with crosses from the markhor (C. fal- 
conert) or other wild Asian species. The goat has never 
been held in high esteem in America, but this attitude 
may change. 
Mention should be made of the Cashmere or Shawl 
goat of India, which is valued for its fine, silk-like under- 
wool, much prized in shawls. ‘‘ Mountain goat ” is men- 
tioned under Sheep. 
Ancora Goat. Fig. 81. 
By E. L. Shaw 
479. The Angora is raised primarily for its mohair and 
meat. The male goat is called a buck, the female a doe, 
the castrated male a wether, and the young a kid. 
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