The Bournemouth Goats team has issued a renewed plea for the public to stay out of the enclosed conservation grazing areas, warning that unauthorised access puts both people and animals at risk.
While previous messages have focused on public safety around cliffs, uneven ground and the unpredictable nature of entire male goats, the team says goat welfare is equally at stake. The animals may appear calm, but unfamiliar people can cause stress, panic and disruption to the herd — particularly during kidding season or when young goats are present.
Prolonged or repeated human contact can result in goats becoming either desensitised or aggressive, especially if they begin associating people with food. This alters their behaviour and can make future interactions more dangerous.
“These are not pets,” the team said. “They’re strong, territorial animals. A person might think everything is fine until it’s suddenly not.”
Staff also raised concerns about people climbing fences, dogs slipping through, or food being dropped in the enclosure, all of which can present serious risks. The goats are part of a conservation grazing project on protected land, and staff entering the area are trained and follow strict welfare protocols.
“Fences mark where protections for livestock and wildlife begin,” the team said. “It’s not about keeping people out for the sake of it. It’s about safeguarding the goats, the environment, and the public.”