UPDATE: As of July 1, 2020, until further notice, the WNC Nature Center remains temporarily closed to the public. The Nature Center is working closely with local officials to develop a plan to safely reopen. This will most likely take place during Phase 3 of North Carolina’s Stay Safe COVID-19 order. We anticipate opening during the month of September and will update the website and our social media platforms as soon as a date is confirmed.

Open 361 Days a Year: 10:00am – 5:00pm, last entry 4:30pm

Nigerian Dwarf Goat

Capra hircus

The Nigerian dwarf goat is a miniature dairy breed of West African ancestry. They were selected as companion and show animals with emphasis on the breed’s graceful appearance and gentle disposition. Nigerian dwarf goats are popular as hobby goats due to their easy maintenance and small stature. The production qualities of the breed have also attracted great attention. Females, known as does, are capable of producing one to two quarts of milk per day for up to ten months. The milk is high in butterfat and makes excellent cheese and butter. Originally, they were brought to the United States on ships as food for large cats and the survivors lived in zoos. Today, they are often used as “weed-eaters” clearing off overgrown and unwanted vegetation.

Rolo

Date of Birth: June 7, 2006

Rolo was born on a farm, and was donated to the WNC Nature Center in February of 2007 He is the larger, brown Nigerian Dwarf Goat, and has a long brown beard.

What Makes Rolo Unique? Rolo is notorious for eating visitors’ maps. He is also larger than most Nigerian Dwarf Goats usually get.

Roddy

Date of Birth: February 16, 2014

Roddy was born on a farm in Asheville, North Carolina and was donated to Nature Center in June of 2014. Roddy is the smaller, light colored Nigerian Dwarf Goat.

What Makes Roddy Unique? Roddy has his own obstacle course, and loves running it regularly for show (and treats!). He also is also a very vocal goat, with a unique sound to his bleats.