[1] This breed of goat was on the verge of extinction during the late 19th century, but recovered prior to World War II, only to precipitously decline again.

The population has dropped below 100 animals several times, leading to genetic bottleneck.

[5] Under its coarse, long guard hair, the Icelandic goat has a coat of high quality cashmere fiber.

Icelandic goats are kept mainly as pets and their economic potential for meat, milk, cashmere and skin production remains to be explored.

[6] Farmer Jóhanna Bergmann Þorvaldsdóttir has been breeding the Icelandic goat, hoping to prevent extinction.