Description

This 6-legged goat represents a rare case of congenital polymelia, a condition in which an animal is born with extra limbs. In livestock, polymelia is most often caused by incomplete embryonic development or a genetic mutation during gestation. These rare deformities are usually non-functional and can appear attached to various parts of the body, including the spine, pelvis, or shoulders.

Polymelia has fascinated scientists, farmers, and collectors for centuries, not only for its biological implications but also for the symbolism it holds in folklore and natural oddities. In most cases, animals born with such abnormalities do not survive, making well-preserved taxidermy specimens extraordinarily rare.

This goat, mounted standing on a custom wood base, offers a museum-grade look into developmental anomalies in mammals. It serves as both a biological curiosity and a striking piece for any oddities collection, natural history exhibit, or Ripley-style cabinet of curiosities.