Adjust space based on breed size

Scale space allocations by 25-50% above baseline minimums for large breeds. Heavy breeds like Embden (20-30 lbs) and Toulouse (20-26 lbs) need roughly 150 sq ft of outdoor space and 15 sq ft of shelter per bird. Smaller breeds like Chinese (10-12 lbs) or Shetland (8-10 lbs) can manage with the standard 100 sq ft outdoor and 10 sq ft indoor minimums.

Why It Works

Larger-bodied geese consume more forage per day, compact more ground with their weight, and produce more manure. Without the extra space, pasture degrades faster and shelter bedding becomes saturated sooner, leading to health and hygiene problems.

Tips

• Weigh your birds seasonally to track if they are within breed-standard ranges
• For mixed flocks, calculate space based on the largest breed present
• Observe pasture condition monthly and expand the area if bare patches appear before rotation time