Goats are a widely domesticated species, valued globally as livestock and increasingly as companion animals. Like many agricultural species, the terminology used to describe goats is highly specific, changing based on an animal’s sex, age, and reproductive status. This specialized vocabulary allows farmers, breeders, and veterinarians to communicate precisely about the animals in their care. This overview clarifies the exact terms used for the male goat, distinguishing between the breeding male, the neutered male, and the young male.
The Terminology for Adult Intact Males
The formal and preferred term for a mature, intact male goat used for breeding is a “buck.” This term is used in professional settings, such as breed registries and veterinary medicine, to designate a sexually mature male capable of reproduction. In common, informal conversation, the term “billy” or “billy goat” is frequently used as a slang synonym.
The characteristics of the buck, particularly during the mating season, known as the “rut,” are distinct and hormonally driven. During this time, the buck develops a strong, musky odor that is often associated with goats in general. This scent comes from glands located near the poll, or top of the head, and functions as a potent signal to receptive females.
A buck in rut will frequently urinate on his own beard and front legs, a behavior that disperses his scent. The urine-soaked coat and intensified musk can be transferred to other animals, which is why bucks are typically housed separately from milking females to prevent taint. Bucks also exhibit a thick, muscular neck and may engage in aggressive head-butting to establish dominance.
Specialized Terms for Male Goats
Not all male goats are referred to as a buck; the term changes if the animal is castrated or has not yet reached maturity. A male goat that has been castrated, meaning his testicles have been removed, is called a “wether.” This procedure is typically performed at a young age to eliminate the strong odor and aggressive behavior associated with the buck.
Wethers are commonly kept for meat production, fiber harvesting, or as companion animals because they are docile and easier to manage than intact males. Because they lack the hormonal influence of a buck, they do not enter the rut and are not capable of breeding. This distinction is important for herd management.
A young goat of either sex is generally referred to as a “kid.” To specify the male young, the term “buckling” is used for a male kid that is still intact. A buckling is usually under one year of age, and once he reaches sexual maturity, he graduates to the adult term of “buck”.
Related Vocabulary of the Goat Herd
The adult female goat is known as a “doe,” though the informal term “nanny” or “nanny goat” is also widely used. The term for the species overall is “caprine,” which refers to the goat family.
The process of a female goat giving birth is called “kidding”. Females typically give birth to one or two young, though triplets are not uncommon. After the doe gives birth, the process of her beginning to produce milk is called “freshening”.