How much space do geese need?
Providing adequate space is crucial for goose health and well-being. Geese need room to roam, forage, exercise, and access water. Overcrowding can lead to stress, disease, and damaged pasture.
- Provide minimum 100 sq ft per goose3
Solution
Allocate at least 100 square feet (approx 10 sq meters) of outdoor space per goose as a bare minimum.
Explanation
This minimum allows for some movement, but extensive foraging won't be possible, and the ground may become bare quickly. This is more suitable if their diet is heavily supplemented.
Notes
More space is always better. This minimum assumes regular cleaning and supplemental feeding.
π diy π οΈ Measuring tape, Fencing4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Aim for 1/4 acre per 2-4 geese for grazing5
Solution
Ideally, provide around 1/4 acre (approx 1000 sq meters) of good quality pasture for every 2 to 4 geese.
Explanation
This amount of space allows geese to satisfy a significant portion of their dietary needs through foraging, reducing feed costs and promoting natural behaviors. It helps prevent overgrazing and keeps the area cleaner.
Notes
Pasture quality affects carrying capacity. Rotational grazing can improve pasture management.
π diy π οΈ Fencing4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Ensure adequate coop/shelter space4
Solution
Provide at least 10-15 square feet (1-1.5 sq meters) of indoor shelter space per goose.
Explanation
While geese spend most time outdoors, they need enough room in their shelter to rest comfortably, especially when confined overnight or during bad weather. This prevents overcrowding and allows for dry bedding.
Notes
Shelter should be well-ventilated but draft-free.
π diy π οΈ Shelter materials, Measuring tape4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Include space for water access4
Solution
Factor in space for their water source, whether it's a large tub, kiddie pool, or natural pond.
Explanation
Geese need water not just for drinking but also for cleaning their beaks and ideally for swimming. The water area needs surrounding space to prevent it from becoming excessively muddy immediately around the pool.
Notes
Ensure the water source can be easily cleaned or refreshed.
π diy π οΈ Water container (pool, tub), Shovel (optional for leveling)4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Consider vertical space (not relevant)3
Solution
Unlike chickens, geese do not roost, so vertical space within a shelter is not a primary concern.
Explanation
Geese sleep on the ground, usually on bedding like straw. Focus on providing adequate floor space rather than height or roosting bars.
Notes
Ensure shelter height allows for easy cleaning access for the owner.
π informational π οΈ None4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution - Adjust space based on breed size4
Solution
Allocate slightly more space per bird for larger breeds like Embden or Toulouse compared to smaller breeds like Call or Shetland.
Explanation
Larger birds naturally require more physical space to move comfortably and will consume more forage, necessitating a larger grazing area per bird to be sustainable.
Notes
Use the general guidelines as a starting point and observe pasture condition.
π planning π οΈ None4/16/2025, 9:22:03 PM
solution