Goose behavior and sexing them

[greathorse]

I have four giant Dewlaps and one is a bit more mature a bit bigger and has a more pronounced dewlap. I walked into the barn tonight wearing a head light and it seems it spooked all of them as they have not seen it before. The one that looks the most male ish to me came toward me and hissed as the others sort of hung back. Is this behavior that might help Identify this one as the gander?

Thanks

 

[swheat]

Yes, that describes a protective gander. I hope you raise several .. and put me on your list...LOL Good luck with..I am green with envy !
Do you have any pictures of them ?

 

[greathorse]

when things get a little less muddy and ugly I will post some pics of them. I did not handle them much as youngsters so they are pretty standoffish, but I think as they mature they will get calmer when I am around. As soon as it thaws out I want to set up a pool as I think the egglaying breeding season is near. They are about 8 months old I am hoping they lay this year.