by Jenn Zamorsky

Created on: October 30, 2008   Last Updated: August 16, 2009

Raising geese can be a very rewarding and amazing experience for you and your entire family. Although geese are very comparably to ducks, some people think that geese are easier to maintain, and are more likely to bond with geese. There are many reasons why people choose to raise geese, and it is up to you to determine to find the right reason. Some raise geese for their egg production, although these feathered friends only lay about 35 eggs per year on average. Meat production is another reason to raise geese, however it makes up a small percentage of poultry being sold. One very popular reason to raise geese is for their down and feathers. Down pillows and blankets are in very high demand. Even though there are many reasons to raise geese ultimately for your own benefit, some families may start to think of their gaggle as pets and as family. So it is up to you to decide what you wish to raise geese for.

After you have decided to raise a gaggle of geese it is time to choose your breed. The breed you choose should somewhat reflect the reason you are raising geese, especially if it is for egg production. The most popular type to raise is the Emden Breed. They are the most suitable for cross breeding with other types of geese. As adults, the male usually weighs in at 12 kg and the female at 9 kg. The Emden Breed usually lays about 40 eggs per year and are very good egg sitters. Also, they are great foragers when they reach their adult stage. Their white feathers are also something that is sought after. One of the best reasons for choosing the Emden Breed for egg production is the fact that they mature earlier than other breeds. The Toulouse Breed is quite similar to the Emden Breed in most aspects. They lay a few less eggs per year, but are not nearly as great at foraging as the Emdens. Another breed that is somewhat recommended is the Chinese Breed. This breed can be either white or brown and are smaller than the other two breeds mentioned. The Chinese Breed is also very excellent for egg production because they lay an astounding 50 eggs per year. Whichever breed of geese you choose to raise, be sure that you find out all you can about the proper care they need.

Once you have chosen what type you wish to raise, it is time to think about shelter for your geese. Geese are very tough and can handle almost anything that life throws at them, but this doesn't mean that they don't deserve to be taken care of. If you choose to go with all open space for your geese

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