Backyard geese
Overview of Raising Backyard Geese
Keeping geese in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, providing large, rich eggs and flavorful meat. Geese are generally hardy, intelligent birds known for their foraging abilities and territorial nature, often acting as effective 'watchdogs'. Compared to chickens, they require more space, access to grazing, and often a water source for swimming, but can be less prone to certain diseases.
Investment and General Requirements
- Initial Cost: Purchasing goslings or adult geese, setting up housing, fencing, feeders, and waterers.
- Housing: A simple, draft-free shelter protecting them from extreme weather and predators is sufficient. They don't need elaborate coops like chickens.
- Space: Geese need ample space to roam and forage. A general guideline is at least 100-200 square feet per goose for pasture.
- Fencing: Essential for containment and predator protection. Fencing should be sturdy and at least 4 feet high.
- Water: Access to clean drinking water is crucial. While a pond or pool is ideal for swimming and mating, a large tub or kiddie pool can suffice if cleaned regularly.
- Feed: Primarily foragers, their diet can be supplemented with waterfowl feed, grains, and greens.
How to Raise Backyard Geese
Start with goslings from a reputable hatchery or breeder. Provide a warm, safe brooder for the first few weeks. Gradually introduce them to the outdoors. Ensure constant access to food and water. Socialize them early if you want tamer birds. Protect them from predators, especially at night.
Feeding and Care
Goslings require a high-protein starter feed. Adult geese thrive on pasture but benefit from supplemental waterfowl pellets, especially during winter or laying season. Provide grit to aid digestion. Regularly clean their water source and shelter bedding (straw or wood shavings work well). Monitor for signs of illness or injury.
Benefits Over Chickens
- Foraging: Geese are excellent foragers, consuming large amounts of grass and weeds, potentially reducing feed costs.
- Hardiness: Often more resistant to cold weather and certain diseases than chickens.
- 'Guard Animals': Their loud calls can alert owners to intruders or predators.
- Larger Eggs: Goose eggs are significantly larger and richer than chicken eggs.
- Longevity: Geese typically live much longer than chickens.
Goose Eggs
Goose eggs are 2-3 times the size of large chicken eggs, with a larger yolk and richer flavor. They are excellent for baking due to their high-fat content. Geese are seasonal layers, typically laying in the spring, producing anywhere from 20 to 60 eggs per year depending on the breed.
Special Requirements
- Water for Swimming: Highly recommended for mating, feather maintenance, and general well-being.
- Social Needs: Geese are social birds and should be kept in pairs or small flocks.
- Potential Aggression: Ganders (males) can become aggressive, especially during mating season. Handling and socialization from a young age can mitigate this.
Climate Requirements
Geese are adaptable to various climates but need shelter from extreme heat and cold. Windbreaks and shade are important in summer, while dry, draft-free housing is crucial in winter.
Space and Fencing
As mentioned, ample space for foraging is key. Fencing keeps geese contained and predators out. While geese typically don't fly much (especially heavier breeds), adequate fence height (4-5 feet) is recommended.
Indoor Keeping
Geese cannot be kept indoors permanently like house pets. They need outdoor space to forage, exercise, and stay clean. Shelter is primarily for nighttime protection and harsh weather.