Unveiling the intriguing saga of Morocco's arboreal goat population
Tree-Climbing Goats in Morocco: A Tourist Attraction with Controversial Implications
In the picturesque landscapes of Morocco, a unique spectacle has long drawn the attention of tourists – goats perched high in Argan trees. This phenomenon, while generating income for farmers like Jaouad Benaddi, has raised concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact.
The tree-climbing goats play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aiding the regeneration of Argan trees. After consuming the rich, nutty fruit, they disperse seeds through their droppings, contributing to the natural regeneration of these trees, which are vital for the local economy due to Argan oil production. This seed-spreading process can be seen as a natural mutualistic relationship, benefiting both the trees and the animals, and promoting landscape sustainability in southwestern Morocco's dry environment.
However, the practice of displaying goats in trees has been criticized by animal welfare advocates. They claim that the animals are being manipulated, exploited, and forced to stay in trees for hours without access to food, water, or shade. Reports suggest that in some cases, the goats are maltreated in all five domains of animal welfare: nutrition, environment, health, behavior, and mental state.
Farmers like Jaouad Benaddi started treeing their goats to earn tips from tourists starting in the early 2000s. Despite the controversy, the income source dwindled after the coronavirus pandemic hit in early 2020 but resumed after Morocco's lockdown ended early this year.
Daniel Bergin, associate director at Globescan, suggests that there needs to be a system in place for supporting farmers like Benaddi, rather than shutting down the goats-in-trees business outright. In an ideal world, Benaddi says, the land would be green again, and he'd return to farming and be able to look after his family and his goats without standing by the side of the road every day waiting for people to stop and give him tips.
As Morocco grapples with intensifying drought conditions through mid-century, the future of this controversial practice remains uncertain. With the country lacking strong animal-protection laws and facing its worst drought in decades, finding a balance between preserving the environment, ensuring animal welfare, and supporting local economies will be a complex challenge.
- The controversial practice of tree-climbing goats in Morocco is questioned due to concerns over animal welfare and environmental impacts.
- The tree-climbing goats contribute to the natural regeneration of Argan trees, aiding in the production of valuable Argan oil.
- The seed-spreading process by goats can be seen as a mutually beneficial relationship, promoting landscape sustainability in Morocco's dry environment.
- Critics argue that the goats are manipulated, exploited, and maltreated due to long hours in trees without adequate access to food, water, or shade.
- Farmers like Jaouad Benaddi started treeing their goats to earn tips from tourists, but the income source dwindled during the coronavirus pandemic.
- Daniel Bergin suggests a system for supporting local farmers, rather than shutting down the goats-in-trees business, to protect both the animals and the environment.
- In an ideal scenario, Benaddi hopes for a green landscape, allowing him to return to sustainable farming and caring for his family and goats.
- As Morocco faces intensifying drought conditions and lacks strong animal-protection laws, the future of this practice demands a delicate balance between preserving the environment, ensuring animal welfare, and supporting local economies.
