Will Goats Forget Herd-mates?

[mylilchix]

About 3 weeks ago we brought home 2 pygmy goats, Cinnamon and Spice. Today we added Cocoa who was raised with them and has always lived with them. It seems like they've forgotten eachother. The 3 girls had a big round of headbutting when Cocoa first got here. Now Spice, my alpha goat, keeps chasing Cocoa around and sticking her tongue out. Spice is always herding Cinnamon away from saying hi to her buddy. What are they doing? Establishing pecking order?

Thanks, Sonja

 

[freemotion]

A lot of critters need to re-establish the pecking order when removed from the herd or flock for a time. They should settle it eventually.

 

[FarmerChick]

sure they forget
animals don't have long term relationships to the level we think

yup--pecking order in the herd is vital....once they get the order, all calms down except for the alpha doe who can sure be a pain as we all know..haha

 

[mylilchix]

Thanks you the info! They're doing really well this morning. Cinnamon is so easy doing she doesn't care where she is in the pecking order. Cocoa and Spice are still having moments, but they were all hanging out together. I didn't realize they could forget eachother so quickly. Cocoa and Cinnamon used to be best buds!

Sonja