Section Banner Images

The Origins of Civilization

print icon Print Page

Image Resource Bank

Image Gallery | Back Button Off 4 of 15 Next Button On

Comparison of Wild and Domesticated Goats

Comparison of Wild and Domesticated Goats

After dogs, goats (and sheep) were among the earliest animals to be domesticated. Evidence from archaeological sites in Iran indicates that sheep and goats were domesticated about 9,000-10,000 years ago. As animals became domesticated, their physical appearances changed. These images show the physical differences between a wild goat (left) and a domesticated goat (right). As just one example, in wild goats the horns sweep backwards like a curved sword, while in domesticated goats the horns are a twisted, corkscrew shape.

Next Button Off Arrowheads

Foundations » The Origins of Civilization  » Image Resource Bank

© 2010 The Oriental Institute, The University of Chicago  |  Page updated: 12/29/2010

Contact Information  |  Rights & Permissions