Use appropriate bedding

Lay down 6-8 inches of straw or pine shavings on the shelter floor and refresh it regularly. Bedding insulates geese from cold ground, absorbs droppings and moisture, and provides a comfortable resting surface. Replace soiled bedding weekly, or use the deep litter method by adding fresh layers on top every few days.

Why It Works

Geese spend most of their resting time on the ground, and a thick bedding layer creates a thermal barrier that keeps body heat from transferring into cold earth. Straw is the most popular choice because its hollow stems trap air for insulation. Pine shavings absorb moisture well but compress faster. Deep litter composting generates mild warmth in winter, adding supplemental heat.

Tips

• Avoid cedar shavings -- the aromatic oils irritate goose respiratory systems
• Spot-clean the wettest areas near water stations daily to prevent ammonia buildup
• Compost used bedding for 3-6 months before applying to garden beds