New Mexico goat's creative paintings earn him nickname 'Van Goat'

Looking to add to your art collection? You may want to consider the newest star of New Mexico's art scene - Bodie. His creations are colorful and creative and sales of his artwork benefit the local zoo. Oh yeah, and Bodie is a goat.

"To see a goat actually hold a paint brush in his mouth and paint and [have] some accuracy with it and some talent, yeah, that's unique," ABQ BioPark Zoo Manager Lynn Tupa said.

Tupa says painting mentally stimulates the animals and keeps them "happier and healthier."

Kritin Wright, who works as Bodie's primary trainer, tells ABC the goat is a quick learner and full of energy.

"He asks to paint every day," New Mexico BioPark Society program manager Shannon Ellesson told ABC of Bodie.

Bodie is not the only artistically-inclined animal at the ABQ BioPark Zoo. The Asian elephants, Western Lowland Gorillas, Sumatran Orangutans and Bodie paint with brushes, while other animals like American alligators, saltwater crocodiles, Bengal tigers, snow leopards, and even bugs use their bodies to create their art.

All of the money generated from sales of the animals' art goes back into funding the animals care and enrichment.

The animal artwork runs from $35-$250 and can be purchased by calling New Mexico BioPark Society Program Manager Shannon Ellefson at 505-764-6212.

Images used with permission.