Wild Goats in New Zealand
For more information e-mail Steuart of NZ Hunting Info Ltd
Many hunters consider a goat trophy a worthwhile addition to their collection. Goats (Capra hircus) are widespread throughout New Zealand and while plentiful their distribution is somewhat localised. see map
Government agencies consider them a pest and consequently fund eradication programs. Professional foot shooters hunt goats in several areas including the West Coast, Marlborough and Taranaki. Because resources are limited, these eradication programs tend to focus on areas that have been identified with high ecological values. Other areas where wild goats are present may be ignored, and consequently can have high animal numbers. The trophy goats tend to get shot out and so good heads can be quite hard to find.
The New Zealand wild goats are a mixture of breeds. In the 1980s there was a sudden move into commercial goat farming but this industry collapsed and many farmed goat breeds were allowed to escape.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) will readily supply information on hotspots. As it does not have the funds to carry out operations against all wild goats DOC encourages their extermination. Hunters should also be aware that some eradication programs are contracted out to private pest control companies.
It is therefore important to contact DOC to find out where the high goat numbers are and whether control operations have been carried out in the area you wish to hunt.
In some parts of New Zealand DOC manages special programs using Judas goats These animals will be wearing a bright orange radio transmitting collar. If you shoot one of these Judas goats, contact DOC and return the collar.
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For more information e-mail Steuart of NZ Hunting Info Ltd
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