A biomolecular and archaeological study led by University College Dublin, in collaboration with Queen’s University Belfast, has established that the Old Irish Goat represents a continuous Irish lineage spanning over 3,000 years. The findings, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, analysed goat remains from Haughey’s Fort in County Armagh, dating to 1100–900 BCE, and medieval Carrickfergus in County Antrim. These are identified as the oldest goat remains in Ireland through radiocarbon dating, genetic, and protein analyses.

Genomic comparisons showed the ancient animals share their strongest genetic affinity with the critically endangered Old Irish Goat population existing today. The study used protein fingerprinting (ZooMS) to identify goat bones and sequenced ancient DNA for comparison with modern breeds worldwide. Medieval goats displayed varied genetic profiles, while modern Old Irish Goats show signs of recent inbreeding due to population decline.

Co-lead authors included Assistant Professor Kevin Daly from University College Dublin, Professor Eileen Murphy and the late Dr Judith Findlater from Queen’s University Belfast, and Dr Jolijn Erven. Murphy noted the historical difficulty in distinguishing goat bones from sheep and the potential importance of goats in past trade, such as skins from Carrickfergus.

The Old Irish Goat, known as 'an Gabhar Fiáin', survives in small feral herds and holds cultural significance in Irish folklore, placenames, and festivals like Puck Fair in County Kerry. Sinead Keane from The Old Irish Goat Society described the research as validation of the breed's ancient heritage and a call for conservation.