For thousands of years, the Old Irish Goat was an integral part of rural Irish life, providing milk, meat, and hides to pastoral communities. Today, Mulranny serves as the national sanctuary and headquarters for saving this ancient breed from total extinction.
Saving an Ancient Living Heritage
Distinguished by their long, dishevelled coats, sweeping horns, and incredible hardiness, the wild herds of the Nephin Beg range around Mulranny harbor some of the purest remaining genetic lines of the original domestic goat introduced to Ireland in Neolithic times.
Highlights of the Visitor Experience
- The Visitor Centre: Educational displays detailing the history, DNA profiling, and revival of the breed.
- Conservation Grazing Projects: Learn how these goats are deployed across Ireland (including Howth Head) for natural wildfire prevention.
- Artisan Gift Shop & Wool Crafts: Browse hand-knitted items, local crafts, and souvenirs supporting conservation.
- Guided Heritage Walks: Seasonal opportunities to spot native herds grazing peacefully along the surrounding hillsides.
Conservation Grazing & Ecology
In addition to preserving genetic biodiversity, the Old Irish Goat plays a vital ecological role. Their selective grazing habits help control invasive gorse and scrub on heathlands, restoring native flora and creating natural firebreaks in vulnerable coastal areas.