What recent discussions it has had regarding potentially extending the regulatory protections pertaining to red deer to encompass native wi…

The Scottish Government has not had any recent discussions regarding potentially extending the regulatory protections pertaining to red deer to encompass native wild goat populations.As set out in our response dated 25 May 2025 to the Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee’s consideration of Petition PE2151 – Grant Protected Status To Primitive Goat Species In The Scottish Borders, whilst feral goats can bring benefits, they are an invasive non-native species that can cause damage to the natural environment and forestry interests.We currently have no plans to increase regulatory protection for primitive goats, or feral goats as they are more commonly known.