Alicudi, a small Italian island in the Aeolian Islands, has taken an unusual approach to dealing with an overpopulation of goats. The island, with its 100 inhabitants and an area of 5.2 sq. km, has implemented a program where those interested in taking a goat home can apply by email and pay a fee of 16 euros. The mayor’s office will consider applications until April 10, and successful applicants will have 15 days to catch and remove the goats from the island.
The rapid increase in the goat population has led to a disruptive imbalance on the island. Once a landmark and even featured on postcards, the goats now pose a problem for the residents of Alicudi. The government’s initiative to allow people to adopt goats aims to reduce their numbers and mitigate the impact they have on the local community.
The goats were introduced to Alicudi about 20 years ago by a farmer who later released them. They have multiplied rapidly and become a nuisance, invading residential areas, getting into houses, eating greenery in gardens, and destroying hedges. To address the issue, the regional government of Sicily has implemented this program that offers guests the opportunity to take home a goat for free but they must catch it themselves.
In conclusion, the goat adoption program on Alicudi is a unique solution to an unusual problem. By allowing residents and guests to take goats off the island, the initiative hopes to restore balance between people and animals and preserve
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