Mountain Goats in the Beartooths

Mountain Goat

We've been in many mountainous areas; however, we've never seen mountain goats close-up. As we drove back along the tundra, Larry suddenly slowed the Jeep and pointed to the west. A small white dot could be seen on the rocks near a deep ravine. As we got closer, it was clear that this dot was a mountain goat.

Mountain Goat
Mountain GoatWe pulled over, grabbed the cameras, and walked out across the rocky tundra being careful not to disturb the soil. As we made our way along the rocks it was interesting to see that the mountain goat had been shedding during the summer. Pieces of wool could be seen on the ground.

Mountain Goat
After a few photographs, we returned to our car and drove up the road to a small gravel side road. After a few hundred feet, we parked and walked out to a rocky hill. After spotting the mountain goat on top of the rocks (above) we continued our photography at a distance that wouldn't disturb the goat. Although she was aware of our presence, she didn't seem to mind.
Mountain Goat

Mountain Goat

We were fascinated by how easily the mountain goat moved through the rocks. She seemed to float across the rocks and could jump many feet from boulder to boulder.

 

While we had to be very careful not to fall or twist our ankle, the goat moved effortlessly through the rocks.

Mountain Goat

She seemed to be the most comfortable when positioned on top of the highest area looking down on the valley.

Mountain Goat

Although mountain goats are found in many areas, they are rarely seen. We were thrilled to be able to spend time watching and photographing this magnificent animal.

 

Created by Annette Lamb, 8/05.