Newborn goats rescued from bin in Kent now thrive

Abandoned newborn goats rescued from bin now thrive after miracle survival

Two newborn Anglo Nubian goats, named Biffa and Veolia, were found abandoned in a public bin in Ashford, Kent, on January 5. The discovery shocked local residents, as the pair were still wet with their umbilical cords attached—signs they had been born just hours earlier. Their survival in freezing conditions seemed unlikely until a passerby intervened.

A member of the public heard the goats’ bleats and quickly rescued them from the bin. They were rushed to a nearby vet’s practice, where staff acted fast to stabilize their condition. Without their mother’s milk, the newborns needed colostrum, a nutrient-rich substance, which was sourced from a local sheep farm.

From the vet, Biffa and Veolia were transferred to Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats in Monchelsea. Staff there provided round-the-clock care to ensure their recovery. Ben Ward, Head of Hoofstock at the sanctuary, later remarked that the goats were lucky to survive after being left in a bin so soon after birth, especially in the cold. The sanctuary’s efforts paid off, as both goats are now thriving. Biffa Waste Management stepped in to cover the costs of Biffa the goat’s care and veterinary bills for the next year. The pair, named after two of the UK’s largest refuse firms, have since become a symbol of resilience. Today, Biffa and Veolia are healthy and energetic, running happily around their enclosure. A spokesman for the sanctuary used their story to highlight the consequences of animal abandonment. They also encouraged the public to support charities working to protect vulnerable animals.

The goats’ recovery marks a positive turn after a harrowing start to life. Their ongoing care is now secured, thanks to the intervention of a waste management company and the dedication of sanctuary staff. The incident has also drawn attention to the broader issue of animal welfare and the need for public support.