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Mountain goats / ibex.

I heard them before I saw them; they sometimes breathe in great snorts! They all watched me quizically and didn't move a muscle as I approached and passed them. They all just kept their eyes firmly fixed on me as I passed. It was only later as I looked back that I saw a kid suckling. I couldn't take a shot of it as the sun was directly in line. La Sierra de La Cabrera.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=RG9TMn1FJzc
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20 comments

Peter Chet said:

Great capture Andy, amazing creatures with their ability to climb rocks at any height with such agility.
I wonder what their accident rate is.
Regards Peter
4 years ago

Andy Rodker replied to Peter Chet:

I've often wondered that too, Peter. I have no idea but it can't be many!
I found this;
“No one knows how many of the animals fall to their deaths. It's common sense that not many knock each other off cliffs, or too few would survive. Still, researchers assume some goats do die from falls--and that such deaths play a role in natural selection for the fittest animals. In thousands of hours of observation, I've never seen fatal falls, and the goats have an amazing ability to find something to cling onto. That doesn't mean they don't get hurt. I've seen a number of goats with broken horns and limps.”
Not sure of the provenance, but hope it helps!
All best wishes,
Andy
4 years ago

Andy Rodker replied to Andy Rodker:

I've added a video.
4 years ago ( translate )

Rosalyn Hilborne said:

Gosh! They have a good head for heights!!!!
4 years ago

Andy Rodker replied to Rosalyn Hilborne:

I've added a video.
4 years ago ( translate )

tiabunna said:

Well captured indeed, interesting that they're so relaxed with people around.
4 years ago

Andy Rodker replied to tiabunna:

I've added a video.
4 years ago ( translate )

Keith Burton said:

This shot is a perfect example of how sure footed these animals are................love it!
4 years ago

Andy Rodker replied to Keith Burton:

I've added a video.
4 years ago ( translate )

Christel Ehretsmann said:

nicely realized...
4 years ago ( translate )

Andy Rodker replied to Christel Ehretsmann:

I've added a video.
4 years ago ( translate )

John FitzGerald said:

Great dynamic range and composition.
4 years ago ( translate )

Andy Rodker replied to John FitzGerald:

I've added a video.
4 years ago ( translate )

Rosalyn Hilborne replied to Andy Rodker:

I remember seeing that on TV!!
4 years ago

Keith Burton replied to Andy Rodker:

Thanks for sharing that....................absolutely amazing..!!
4 years ago