Planning a picnic at Cala Moresca or another Sardinian cove? Keep every snack sealed and inside a closed bag or rigid container—especially if curious goats are nearby. Goats can investigate food quickly, tug at open bags and grab an unattended sandwich. A few simple habits help protect your lunch and keep the animals from learning to associate people with food.

1. Close your backpack and food containers

Use a backpack that zips fully shut, or pack food in containers with secure lids. Keep the bag closed whenever you are not taking something out, and avoid leaving sandwiches or fruit on an open towel. A goat can reach food in the time it takes to turn away.

2. Never leave the picnic unattended

Keep your food beside you and pack it away between courses. If you need to walk to the water or take photos, close the bag and ask someone in your group to keep an eye on it. Do not assume a bag is safe just because it is a short distance away.

3. Don’t feed the goats

Feeding goats can encourage them to approach other visitors, compete for food or become persistent around picnic areas. Human snacks may also be unsuitable for their diet. Enjoy watching them from a respectful distance and do not try to lure them away from your belongings with food.

4. Keep a respectful distance and stay calm

Do not corner, chase, grab or frighten a goat. If one approaches, calmly secure your food and give it space to move away. Keep children close and do not try to pull food out of an animal’s mouth or take hold of its horns. If a goat seems agitated, move away without sudden movements.

5. Choose low-odour, easy-to-pack food

Pack snacks in sealed containers and avoid leaving wrappers or food scraps around. Strong smells may attract curious animals, but no type of food packaging can guarantee that a goat will stay away. Take all rubbish with you and use a proper bin when available.

6. Leave the area as you found it

Do not leave food scraps, plastic, napkins or packaging behind. Litter can harm wildlife and spoil the landscape for other visitors. If goats are present at a picnic spot, keep your belongings secured and follow any local signs or instructions.

Quick checklist for a goat-proof picnic

  • Use a fully zipped backpack or lidded food container.
  • Keep food with you and never leave it unattended.
  • Do not feed, chase or touch the goats.
  • Stay calm and give approaching animals room.
  • Keep children close and secure all rubbish.

The bottom line

The easiest way to keep goats away from your picnic in Sardinia is to make food inaccessible: close your backpack, seal your containers and never leave lunch unattended. Don’t feed the animals or try to scare them off. At Cala Moresca and other scenic coastal spots, a little preparation helps you enjoy the view while treating local animals responsibly.