How do mountain goats keep balance on steep cliffs?
Quick Answer
Their hooves have hard outer rims and soft inner pads that grip rock well. A low center of gravity and strong legs also help them climb and jump.
The Full Story
Mountain goats and other cliff-dwelling ungulates are built for steep terrain. Their hooves are split and can spread slightly for traction, with a hard outer edge and a soft, grippy center. Their muscular shoulders, powerful legs, and excellent balance allow them to leap between ledges and stand on narrow surfaces. They also have flexible joints that improve stability on uneven rock. Species such as the Alpine ibex and mountain goat are famous for moving confidently on cliffs that would be dangerous for most animals.
Key Facts
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