There has been a huge decline in rangeland goat populations.

A new aerial survey shows goat numbers have plummeted 40 per cent in central and western New South Wales.

Last year, numbers soared to a record 5-point-7 million.

This year, a lower 3-point-4 million were recorded.

Rural reporter Roshai Murdoch spoke with Department of Primary Industries senior research scientist and report author Steven McLeod about the findings.

Mr. McLeod says a severe run of dry weather doesn't completely explain the population drop.

There has been a huge decline in rangeland goat populations.
A new aerial survey shows goat numbers have plummeted 40 per cent in central and western New South Wales.
Last year, numbers soared to a record 5-point-7 million.
This year, a lower 3-point-4 million were recorded.
Rural reporter Roshai Murdoch spoke with Department of Primary Industries senior research scientist and report author Steven McLeod about the findings.
Mr. McLeod says a severe run of dry weather doesn't completely explain the population drop.

The Rural News

The Rural News is market leader, dealing exclusively with stories of interest to the farming sector and has the support of Australia’s largest media business and international correspondents.

The Rural News is market leader, dealing exclusively with stories of interest to the farming sector and has the support of Australia&rsquo;s largest media business and international correspondents.