Those dam goats get everywhere

Photo / Supplied

Always hunting for a meal, these alpine ibex goats (pictured) have been photographed scaling the 49m face of the Cingino Dam in northern Italy.

A video shows them hopping from one rock to another on the almost sheer ledge of the dam. The goats are native to the Alps and known for their climbing abilities. They are usually found in the rocky mountain slopes at about 15,000ft above sea-level.

Wildlife expert Terry Nutkins told the Guardian the goats were licking rocks for minerals and while fascinating, their actions were not unusual.

He said it was a "classic illustration of how well this species has adapted to its environment".

"The ibex have soft, split hooves that can grip like a pincer. Big and supple with shortish, powerful legs, they are very sure-footed and have good eyesight," he said.

"At a lower level there's plenty of grass, but they do need salts and minerals, and this must be a favourite place for them.

- staff reporter