Be aware of size difference and bullying

Account for the significant size and strength gap between geese and chickens before housing them together. Adult geese weigh 4.5-8 kg compared to 2-4 kg for most chicken breeds, and ganders become territorial and aggressive during breeding season (typically February through June). A single gander can injure or kill a chicken with wing strikes or biting.

Why It Works

Recognizing the physical mismatch lets you plan adequate space, escape routes, and intervention strategies. Ganders view roosters as rivals, so mixed flocks without enough room reliably produce injuries. Anticipating this prevents losses.

Tips

• Provide at least 10 square metres of ranging space per goose to reduce territorial pressure
• Install low barriers or shelters that chickens can duck under but geese cannot follow
• Watch for escalating aggression especially during spring mating season