Fainting goat facts for kids
Fainting goats, also known as Myotonic goats, are a special breed of goat that might look like they're fainting when they get surprised or excited. But don't worry, they're not really fainting! Let's learn more about these unique animals.
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What are fainting goats?
Fainting goats are a breed of goat that comes from America. They're also called Tennessee Fainting Goats, Stiff-Legged Goats, Nervous Goats, or Tennessee Wooden-Leg Goats. The scientific name for a goat is Capra aegagrus hircus. People often keep them as pets or raise them for their meat.
What makes them "faint"?
These goats have a special condition called myotonia congenita. It's a condition they inherit from their parents. Myotonia congenita makes their muscles get very stiff when they are startled or excited. Imagine if someone yelled "Boo!" and your muscles suddenly froze for a few seconds. That's kind of what happens to these goats!
When a fainting goat gets surprised, its muscles tense up and don't relax right away. This can make the goat lose its balance and fall over. It looks like they are fainting, but they are actually awake and aware of what's happening. After a few moments, their muscles relax, and they can get back up and move around again.
How big do they get?
Fainting goats are usually smaller than other types of goats. They can grow to be about 17 to 25 inches tall. They can weigh between 60 and 174 pounds. Male goats, called billies or bucks, can sometimes weigh up to 200 pounds! Because of their muscular condition, they often have a wide body and a lot of muscle.
Where do they come from?
Fainting goats were first found in Tennessee in the 1880s. No one is completely sure where they came from.
What do they look like?
Fainting goats can have different colors and patterns. Most of them are black and white, but they can also be other colors. Their fur can be long or short. They have eyes that stick out a little bit, and their ears are medium-sized and hang down.
Are they good for anything?
Even though they "faint," these goats are actually quite useful!
- Meat: They have a lot of muscles, so they are often raised for their meat.
- Pets: Some people keep them as pets because they are funny and unique.
- Easy to Keep: Because they can't jump or climb very well, they are easier to keep in a fenced area than other goats.
Behavior
Fainting goats are known for being gentle and easy to get along with. They are also smart and curious. Even though they might "faint" sometimes, they can still have a good time exploring and playing.
Why do farmers like them?
Farmers like fainting goats for a few reasons:
- They have a good amount of muscle, which makes them good for meat. Studies have shown that they have a higher meat-to-bone ratio compared to other goat breeds.
- Because of their myotonia, they don't climb or jump fences very well, making them easier to keep in enclosed spaces.
- They are known to be more resistant to parasites compared to some other goat breeds.
Fun Facts About Fainting Goats
- The stiffness can be different for each goat. Some goats get very stiff and fall over easily, while others only get a little stiff.
- They are awake the whole time their muscles are stiff.
- Other animals, like people, dogs, cats, and mice, can also have myotonia congenita.
- Fainting goats can live for 15 to 18 years.
See also
In Spanish: Cabra Miotónica para niños
