Not only is Bonaire known as the shore diving capitol of the world, and famous for its bird watching and donkeys, but is it also home to a lot of goats, both wild and domestic. When the Spanish explorers first came to Bonaire, they brought both donkeys and goats, and then left them there to fend for themselves when they departed.
At first, the Spanish brought goats to the island for their hides, rather than for their meat, but today, goat is a popular staple to the Bonairian diet, consumed as meat, cheese, yogurt and goat’s milk. The goats are now seen as a traditional symbol of resilience during times of hardship. We see goats all over the island, every time we go. They are definitely resilient and are comfortable all over the island, whether it be in the wilds or at the edges of town.
Even though the goats have called Bonaire home for centuries now, they are still seen as an invasive species and can be quite pesky, especially if not controlled. These new inhabitants led to a series of direct and indirect changes to marine and terrestrial ecosystem, significantly impacting the environmental health of the island. As grazers, goats often feed on young plants, eliminating local plant populations from reproducing or spreading. This has eventually led to a domination of the local landscape of thorny bushes and cacti. Furthermore, overgrazing eventually leads to increased soil erosion or an over decrease of water retention on the island
Life is short. Make the most out of everyday and live life to the fullest. Have a great day and make everyday great. ‘Til next time.
A Jeanne in the Kitchen 