Rocky Mountain Goat

 

A cool mammal to encounter while hiking at elevations in the Rocky Mountains are the Rocky Mountain Goats.

Mountain goats are not true goats—but they are close relatives. They are more properly known as goat-antelopes.

These surefooted beasts inhabit many of North America's most spectacular alpine environments. They often appear at precipitous heights, from Alaska to the U.S. Rocky Mountains, showcasing climbing abilities that leave other animals, including most humans, far below.

Mountain goats have cloven hooves with two toes that spread wide to improve balance.

Rough pads on the bottom of each toe provide the grip of a natural climbing shoe.

Mountain goats are powerful but nimble and can jump nearly 12 feet in a single bound. National Geographic