* Large Goose Breeds:- African Geese, American Buff Goose, Embden Geese , Toulouse Geese .  African Geese.. . like icebergs almost the same area beneath the water |
Large breeds are often longer lived than their yappier smaller cousins many are exceptionally placid ( African's) but all need more skill in the owner to keep feather quality and good breeding conditions. Many are reluctant to breed being world class experts on breaking their own eggs or simply reluctant layers. Historically all meat breeds would be ' walked ' to market for sale so they respond well to being 'driven'. Please check you have sufficient land and knowledge with these breeds many of whom are becoming very rare in their purebred form. . . we willingly answer personal queries or simply ask via the domestic - waterfowl club website . . . . . Large keels and dewlaps(on Toulouse) are by products of selecting for large birds. If not carefully bred, all heavyweight breeds of geese may decrease in size every succeeding generation. Do not use birds with narrow or undersized bodies, excessively arched backs, keels with extremely rough underlines, slender necks, small dewlaps, and weak heads. Except in mature laying geese, tails drooping below the line of the back are often a sign of low fertility and lack of vigor. Breeders of production birds should take care not to select for excessive keels as these inhibit a bird's ability to breed. Matings of pairs or trios are usually the most productive. (Holderread, 1981). |
| . Telephone : 01691 655 635 (Shropshire) or Email grahamhickss@hotmail.co.uk |