Feral goats (also known as 'unmanaged rangeland goats' in the Western region) are defined as goats that have not been born as a result of a managed breeding program, have been captured from a wild state, and have not been subjected to any animal husbandry procedure or treatment.
Impact of feral goats
Feral goats compete with livestock and some native animals for pasture. They can contribute to land degradation through grazing and feeding.
They also impact biodiversity by damaging the vegetation and competing with native animals.
Feral goats are a threat to Aboriginal cultural sites.
Control of feral goats
All land managers can reduce risks from feral goat populations on land under their care and control, by
undertaking primary control activities that:
- minimise or eliminate the impacts of feral goats on their land
- aim to destroy local feral goat populations where possible
- reduce the risk of feral goats breeding on their land
- prevent the spread of feral goats to or from their land.
Feral goat control methods
Mustering, trapping and shooting are the key control measures for feral goats.
Harvesting of goats for consumption remains the main control when financial returns make this a viable option.
Price drops in the wild goat market can lead to reduced harvesting and a rise in goat densities and environmental damage. During these periods of poor financial returns, control activities are required.
Where mustering is not practical on public lands, aerial shooting is considered.
For more information on pest species and biosecurity, visit PestSmart.
Otherwise, please contact your local Biosecurity Officer if you require feral goat pest animal management advice.
Pest control in your region
We've worked with regional pest animal committees and the community to develop regional strategic pest animal management plans in each of our 11 Local Land Services regions.
Your Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan will tell you what priority pest animal pest animals you need to manage and how.
Contact Local Land Services NSW
Our team welcome your enquiries, feedback and comments.
Local Land Services is moving to nsw.gov.au. During the change, you might find the information you are looking for at lls.nsw.gov.au
Phone:1300 795 299