A Struggle to Train the Goats
Jaouad Benaddi spends his mornings trying to get his goats to climb an argan tree. His 13-year-old son, Khalid, climbs first, using a bag of grain to lure them. Some follow naturally, while others must be lifted onto small wooden platforms. Eventually, a dozen goats stand motionless in the tree’s branches, drawing the attention of passing tourists.
A Tourist Attraction Amid Drought
Morocco’s tree-climbing goats have become a spectacle. Though they instinctively climb for fruit, herders now train them to stay in trees for hours, hoping to earn tips from visitors. Tourists traveling from Marrakech to Essaouira often stop to take photos, leaving payments that range from a few dirhams to several dollars. For struggling farmers, this provides an essential income in the face of worsening drought.
Concerns About Animal Welfare
Animal advocates argue that forcing goats to remain in trees is harmful. Experts warn that heat stress, dehydration, and falls pose risks. Some herders tie baby goats to trees for tourists to hold, while others use sticks to prod the animals into position. Despite these concerns, the practice persists due to economic hardship.
A Debate Without Resolution
Morocco lacks strong animal protection laws, and despite criticism, tree-climbing goats remain a common sight. Some veterinarians report treating injured goats that have fallen. While activists push for better regulations, herders continue the practice, struggling to balance tradition, tourism, and financial survival.
