An older goat will generally avoid them pretty quickly as they don't like getting stung. That of course, will be after they know everything about the hives including how close they can get without getting stung. Youngsters just can't resist the excitement, and can be a real nuisance, clambering and jumping on top and knocking them over etc. Even an electric fence didn't work for me. Any time the fence shorted out, the goats discovered that in no time, and were quick to continue their mischief.