You are probably wondering if I have finally completely lost the plot this evening but please, don’t panic – all is not lost. There is method in my madness. There is a connection between family, local and social history and mountain goats. Honest. Stay with me….
Sometimes known as the Rocky Mountain goat, a mountain goat is a large-hoofed mammal found only in North America. A sub-alpine to alpine species, it is a sure-footed climber commonly seen on cliffs and ice. A bit like my team…. Sure-footed and more commonly seen on more challenging cases! Confession time. Last night, I was so frustrated with a case that hadn’t worked for another member of the team, I stayed up way too late to get it cracked…. It’s addictive this job!
This sure-footed climber has steely determination and by jove, I won’t be walked all over or leave any stone unturned on a job. You have an axe to grind? Go and grind it somewhere else…. You want a researcher who cuts corners and does your research ‘on the cheap’? Then, find someone else….
According to Wikipedia (so it must be right), “Daily movements by individual mountain goats are primarily confined to areas on the same mountain face, drainage basin, or alpine opening“…. again, like Team FWL. The site goes on to say that “the mountain goat’s feet are well-suited for climbing steep, rocky slopes with pitches exceeding 60°, with inner pads that provide traction and cloven hooves that can spread apart.”
We have had expansion in sure-footed climbers over the past six months and we may well have roles for some more. Anyone considering climbing mountains? Fancy a new challenge? From a few hours a week to a dedicated role in the mountain goat team, there are lots of opportunities. Why not try it out? See if you like it…. The current goatherd look forward to hearing from you, out there in the field.
