It is a new year, there is not a lot of grass and the geese are getting hungry. Wheat or mixed corn, a few slices of bread and a few raw potatoes will be much appreciated.
In the New Year the gander will be in an indifferent frame of mind and will be rather protective as the goose prepares the nest site. Make sure the goose house is clan, that is also has plenty of straw and is left open at all times, the gander will be on guard duty so you may need to give him a wide birth.
She will lay as many eggs as she can sit on so no harm in taking a few away; they make amazing omelettes!
The goose will leave the eggs to eat and bath about twice a day, she needs to wet her underside to keep the eggs moist, this helps them soften the shell and helps the goslings to hatch.
At this point I tend to empty any man made ponds and put cat litter trays or shallow dishes filled with water down as the goslings will drown if the can not get out of a deeper pool.
Gosling start grazing almost instantly but a few chick crumbs will be appreciated and will help them grow.
Crows and magpies can be a problem but geese are great parents, watching and protecting all the time.
Enjoy your goslings, they grow very fast; it is a great start to the year!
Hi Jeannie
Great post! Love the geese at this time of year, got to watch out for that gander though or he will be hanging off you trouser leg!
Goslings are a real treat when they hatch; really does make you feel that spring is on its way after a long hard winter.
Please keep us updated on your progress and ahare any more tips.
Thanks
Paul
Hi Jeannie,
Very interesting post, I have recently moved to the country and have decided to start buying some animals for my farm.
I was interested to read you imformative post and was wondering if you could advise me on the breed names of some of the more popular farm geese?
Thanks and looking forward to read about your adventures.
Martin