The Story of the Goats of Goat Island on Pickwick Lake
The Story of the Goats of Goat Island on Pickwick Lake
On Pickwick Lake, nestled in the heart of Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, a small island has gained a unique reputation: Goat Island. Its name is no coincidence—this little piece of land has been home to a population of wild goats for years, becoming a local curiosity for boaters and visitors alike.
The Beginning: From Tame to Wild Goats
The first goats on the island weren’t truly wild. Originally, they lived at a nearby campground, where campers enjoyed watching and feeding them. These goats became part of the scenery, adding a touch of charm to the area.
Over time, however, the goats were relocated to Goat Island, a small, isolated landmass with no direct access to the mainland. Unless they swam, they had no way of leaving. Surprisingly, this didn’t seem to bother them—they adapted quickly, grazing on the island’s vegetation and occasionally receiving treats from boaters passing through.
Disappearance and Tragedy
In 2017, Goat Island was home to 11 goats, but in 2018, unknown individuals captured all the goats and took them far from their island, never to return them. The story could have ended there, but in January 2020, it took a darker turn.
That month, Craig Mitchell, a local resident, heard 15 gunshots and the distressing bleats of goats. When he arrived on the scene, he discovered that all the goats had been killed, except for three baby billy goats that were only two days old. These young survivors, too small to fend for themselves, had to be bottle-fed to ensure they survived.
Later, in 2021, more goats were chased to the edge of a bluff, where they fell and died. Despite these tragedies, the goat population on the island continued to be restored through the introduction of new goats, some of which were traded to allow for breeding.
Today: A New Life for the Goats of Goat Island
Currently, Goat Island is home to eight goats, including six adults and two babies. During the summer months, boaters and visitors take care of them, feeding them and enjoying their presence. In the winter, Craig Mitchell ensures they have everything they need to survive.
The goats of Goat Island have become a local symbol, a unique attraction for those exploring Pickwick Lake. These curious and playful creatures have fully adapted to their island home, roaming freely, interacting with visitors, and eagerly accepting snacks from passing boaters.
A word of advice: Don’t bring your dog to the island—it might scare the goats !