The social order of the mountain goat is matriarchal; the smaller nannies (females) dominate the more placid billies (males), except during the mating season. Males are 10 to 30% larger than females. A large billy stands about 1 m (40 in.) at the shoulder and weighs around 90 kg (200 lb.).

These animals are very adept at moving about on the high rocky cliffs and ledges of the rugged mountainous terrain where they spend much of their time. Their main predator is the cougar, but the kids (young) sometimes fall victim to the Golden Eagle. Humans hunt them for trophies.

In Canada, the mountain goat is found primarily in British Columbia; this North American species inhabits the Rocky Mountain zone from southern Alaska to Washington State and parts of Montana and Idaho.