No Riding Goats on Bonaire’s Public Roads at Night

In the Dutch Caribbean territory of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, local lore tells of an odd customary rule allegedly forbidding the riding of goats on public roads during nighttime hours. While not codified in modern traffic laws, this practice hints at the islanders’ pragmatic approach to safety and animal welfare in earlier times. As goats were commonly used for transport in rural areas, especially before the prevalence of motor vehicles, riding them at night posed risks both to the rider and other road users due to poor visibility and the unpredictable nature of livestock. This tradition, if true, underscores how local communities adapted their everyday customs to fit their unique environment, balancing functionality with common-sense concerns. Though its historical accuracy remains unconfirmed, the tale persists in local storytelling circles, reflecting an intriguing aspect of the islands’ cultural heritage and attitude towards animals and transportation.