Team goat deployed to New York park
Not only prodigious climbers, goats have four stomachs and can consume a quarter of their bodyweight in vegetation every day. (stock photo)
A herd of goats has arrived at a park in New York, tasked with restoring woodlands that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy and other severe storms.
The team of eight will being working in the northeast corner of Prospect Park, which has been hit hardest, losing more than 50 trees. Without the trees, invasive plants have thrived, causing erosion and damage to habitats.
But removing the weeds isn't as simple as it sounds, according to Christian Zimmerman, vice president at Prospect Park Alliance, which preserves and maintains the park. Steep hillsides in the area present a challenge for human staff and machinery, but they are easily manoeuvred by goats.
Not only prodigious climbers, goats have four stomachs and can consume a quarter of their bodyweight in vegetation every day.
Their work at the park is not just about beautifying the area, but also fortifying habitat and food sources for local fauna, including countless bird species.
Mr Zimmerman said: "Once their work is complete, we will then plant new native trees and shrubs, including red and white oaks, spicebush and service berry, which will help to bring back important habitat for birds and other wildlife."
The goat team comprises a mixture of Nubian, Angora and pygmy breeds. They were provided by Green Goats, a farm in Rhinebeck, New York, that specialises in landscape restoration.
The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.
