Overview
- The research, led by University College Dublin with Queen's University Belfast and international partners, was published in the Journal of Archaeological Science.
- Goat bones from Haughey’s Fort (c.1100–900 BCE) and medieval Carrickfergus were confirmed as Ireland’s oldest identified goat remains using radiocarbon dating and protein fingerprinting (ZooMS).
- Ancient DNA comparisons found the strongest genetic affinity between those ancient goats and today’s Old Irish Goat, indicating continuity across roughly 3,000 years.
- Modern Old Irish Goat populations show clear signs of inbreeding linked to a recent population collapse, in contrast to the greater genetic diversity seen in medieval samples.
- Conservation groups, including the Old Irish Goat Society, say the findings validate the breed’s cultural significance and bolster the case for urgent protection and management of remaining herds.