Raising geese on the homestead. 

Goose facts:

Gander/Goose or Hen

Geese were domesticated over 3,000 years ago! 

Breeds to consider

-A’s breed chart

https://www.axeandroothomestead.com/store/p12/Download%3A_Which_Breed_of_Goose_is_Right_for_my_Farm%3F.html

-We both raise Sebastopol geese- a threatened breed 

Reasons why:

-Geese just kind of have a zest of life! 

Eggs

Guardians

FUN

How to start/where to look:

Local folks

Metzer

Meyer Hatchery

Mypetchicken

Getting one goose isn’t recommended- just like goats for example- they are flock animals.

Housing considerations:

Bedding

Water-pools vs natural water

Everyday needs discussed.

Nutrition!!

-This might be the most critical part of raising goslings/geese. For the first several weeks goslings need a feed that contains roughly 22% protein- chick starter is not suitable and never use medicated. 

Niacin- a B vitamin that is crucial for healthy development of water fowl-specifically geese. Without it you will see stunted growth and leg issues. –Brewers yeast is an option 

Geese LOVE grass  and are actually excellent weeders. 

Health-

Bumblefoot 

Coccidia

Angel wing

GOOSE EGG CUSTARD RECIPE! 
2 goose eggs

4 cups of whole milk or cream- either works great!

1/2 cup of honey 

A dash of sea salt

1 tablespoon of vanilla extract or a dash ( I don't measure much)

Preheat your oven to 350F. 

Scald the milk. In a saucepan heat the milk, stirring regularly, until it begins to simmer. Allow it to cool for a moment while you mix the rest of the ingredients

Mix together goose eggs, honey, salt, and vanilla in a large bowl. 

SLOWLY mix in the hot milk, careful you don't want to cook the eggs. Stir until everything is combined. 

Pour the mix into a prepared ramekins or pie pans. Think of this as a creme brûlée! 

Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the custard sets and is jiggly.

Enjoy hot or cold. Top with fruit or homemade whipped cream! YUM