How do i know if my geese are eating?

[Kangasox]

We just became the proud owners of 2 Toulouse geese. Prepare for the dumb questions, because as much as I've learned about ducks, it apparently doesn't transfer. Ha! Boy, are they different personalities.

So, we got them from a lady who hatched them, and they have lived their 4 month life with ducks. We currently have them in quarantine before we put them in with the ducks, but I'm not sure how much they are eating. I know geese mostly eat grass, yes? They have access to grass and I've seen them nibbling a few times, but they have not touched the grain/feed except the few times they've eaten out of our hands. I see them drinking and bathing from the pool, but they stand/sit around a lot (and one has flown over the fence multiple times, I think he's trying to find the ducks he can hear). I just want to make sure they are as happy as possible and am worried, not knowing typical goose behavior. What should I be looking for?

 

[Kangasox]

Étienne & Amélie

 

[Miss Lydia]

Étienne & Amélie

I bet they will eat once united with the ducks they are dif creatures of habit and have a hard time adjusting. They look healthy as can be.

 

[Kangasox]

Thanks @Miss Lydia,I've seen them grazing a bit more the past couple days. They are so much more cautious and suspicious then the ducks. I hate to keep them apart, but want to make sure there are no issues before I put them together. One other question - after they make noise or honk they tend to shake their heads gently side to side a few times. They both do it, often at the same time (while talking to us or each other). Is this a typical goose behavior? We're going to check them for mites and lice tomorrow (unlikely but want it be thorough) but wasn't sure what the head shaking was.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Thanks @Miss Lydia ,I've seen them grazing a bit more the past couple days. They are so much more cautious and suspicious then the ducks. I hate to keep them apart, but want to make sure there are no issues before I put them together. One other question - after they make noise or honk they tend to shake their heads gently side to side a few times. They both do it, often at the same time (while talking to us or each other). Is this a typical goose behavior? We're going to check them for mites and lice tomorrow (unlikely but want it be thorough) but wasn't sure what the head shaking was.

@Kangsox I haven't seen mine do a head shake so not sure what that may mean but might want to check ears too while your at it ,Just doubt they both would have an ear problem or lice if they have had bathing water. But should check anyway. They look very healthy but I am looking at a pic. Geese love grazing and alot folks don't even feed if they have grass for grazing in summer but I think young geese especially need feed even if they only nibble they should have access to it.