Mountain Goat - Gloomy Knob

Curious mountain goat stands on smooth rocks.

© Sean Neilson

Mountain Goats, Oreamnos americanus ~ Mountain goats have thick white coats of hollow hairs that help to keep them warm in extreme weather. Goats may have been among the first land animals to recolonize Glacier Bay after the ice retreated, coming over the mountains from Lynn Canal to the east. They are at home on the steep rocky cliffs in the mid-to-upper bay. The special shape and design of their hooves allows them to leap nimbly from ledge to ledge in search of grasses, herbs, and low-growing shrubs. Seen at a distance, they can be mistaken for Dall sheep, which are found in interior Alaska, rather than Glacier Bay. A great place to spot mountain goats in Glacier Bay is on the cliffs of Gloomy Knob, near Tidal Inlet.

Read about Mountain Goat research in Glacier Bay.

Discover the mammals of Glacier Bay on our website.

*Location note: The location chosen for this mountain goat is for illustrative purposes only. Mountain goats can be found on rocky cliffs throughout Glacier Bay! Stay wildlife aware, and never approach wild animals.