Old Irish Goats Linked to Ancient Irish Farming Through DNA
New research confirms what local communities and conservationists have long suspected: the Old Irish Goat is a living connection to Ireland’s ancient past. DNA evidence shows that this critically endangered breed is directly linked to goats that lived on the island over 3,000 years ago.
A Living Heritage
Historically known as “an Gabhar Fiáin” or the wild goat, the Old Irish Goat has been a staple of Irish folklore for centuries. Today, surviving in small, feral herds, the breed symbolizes resilience, wisdom, and rural life, valued for its hardiness, ability to survive on marginal land, and nutrient-rich milk.
The new study, led by University College Dublin (UCD) in collaboration with Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and international partners, highlights the breed’s significance as a living relic of ancient Irish farming communities.
Ancient Connections Confirmed
Researchers analyzed goat remains from two key archaeological sites:
Haughey’s Fort, Co. Armagh (Late Bronze Age, c. 1100–900 BC)
Medieval Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim
Radiocarbon dating, genetic, and protein analyses confirm these remains are the oldest goat remains identified in Ireland. DNA comparisons reveal that both the Bronze Age and medieval goats are most closely related to today’s Old Irish Goats, demonstrating over three millennia of genetic continuity.
Modern Implications for Conservation
Sinead Keane of The Old Irish Goat Society emphasized the study’s importance:
“This research provides scientific validation that the Old Irish Goat is a living piece of our ancient heritage. It underscores the urgency of protecting this critically endangered breed, which carries a living genetic record of Ireland’s past.”
While medieval goat populations showed varied genetics, the modern Old Irish Goat displays signs of inbreeding, reflecting a dramatic population decline in recent decades.
Insights from the Researchers
Assistant Professor Kevin Daly (UCD) highlighted that combining genetics, proteomics, and archaeology provides a window into ancient livestock and their continuity to today.
Professor Eileen Murphy (QUB) noted historical records suggesting goats were kept for trade, particularly in skins exported from ports like Carrickfergus.
Dr. Jolijn Erven pointed out that despite thousands of years, changing farming practices, and recent decline, Old Irish Goats retain a remarkable genetic link to their ancestors.
The research honors Dr. Judith Findlater (QUB), who contributed key research on Medieval Carrickfergus but passed away before the study’s publication.
Conclusion
The Old Irish Goat is more than a rare breed; it is a living testament to Ireland’s agricultural history, connecting modern landscapes with the practices and communities of the Bronze Age and medieval periods. Protecting this breed is not only vital for biodiversity but also preserves a unique genetic and cultural legacy spanning over 3,000 years.
