Gosling bullies Duckling

[Blynn91]

So i have 4 week old ducklings and 2 week old goslings. One of my gosling started pulling at the back feathers at one of my ducklings so now the back is completely bald. I separated them and all seems fine but when I take them outside to go swimming and to play around in the yard for the day that same gosling attacks that same duckling. It got to a point where another duckling I am believing male started putting that gosling in it's place but took a chunk of feathering from the gosling with it. What are your guys thoughts. I plan on doing more super vision with this since they all need their exercise and swim time but I don't want to segregate them forever. Any advice? Also I have no idea what breed they are i am thinking buff geese.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Unfortunately this can happen, especially when they are brooded together. They don't know they are different species and interact as if they are the same.

Geese can be bullies to other species in my experiences keeping them, so you may just need to keep everyone separated. When raised separately they may or may not get along when combined later on. It helps to have places the ducks can slip under and the geese cannot as adults.

 

[Blynn91]

Ok thank you. I have them separated currently right now I hope they get along in the future. I appreciate your advice.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Ok thank you. I have them separated currently right now I hope they get along in the future. I appreciate your advice.

Geese can be tricky. I've had some that are nice, and some that will kill other poultry during the breeding season if they get a chance. I've learned to always have places for chickens and ducks to duck under to get away and avoid dead corners. Outside of the breeding season they are a bit better behaved, but still will boss everyone around.

Occasionally goslings will start that feather pulling when they are bored. It's best to give them room and stuff to do. If warm enough I put them out on grass asap. Geese in general use their bills to explore, and to pick things apart if they can.