The zoo’s executive director, Greg Bockheim, said in a press release.
“They’re fun to watch and very active.
“Soon visitors will be able to walk into the habitat and interact with the goats, linking humans and animals, and inspiring people to learn more about domestic and wild animals.”
The new animals arrived at the Norfolk-based zoo from the Halifax, VA, Country Charm Farm. The new residents are a miniature breed of dairy goat that resides in West Africa, called Nigerian dwarf goats. Adults of the breed tend to measure between 17 and 24 inches at their shoulder height.
The goat area is only the beginning of the renovations at the Zoo Farm, where work is setto continue into next summer.
The zoo is considered a hybrid operation, where the Virginia Zoological Park staff maintains the animal exhibits and provides care and husbandry for the animals, as well as grounds maintenance and managing the ticket boot. The Virginia Zoological Society staff, meanwhile, operates the gift shop, concessions, and restaurants, as well as educational programs, parties and special events, marketing and promotions, the membership program, and grant writing and fundraising through the private sector.