Looking to get some geese

[CricketR4]

My hubby and I are looking to get some geese for two reasons: we heard they might help protect our ducks and chickens against hawks, and also he's thinking about maybe raising a few for meat. I've done some research, but I'd like more personal opinion on which breeds might be best for us. We have 4 kids, so I don't want something too aggressive, but definitely want something to sound a warning. I did have one person tell me Poms are nice, so I've been looking into them, any other suggestions?

 

[CelticOaksFarm]

geese are all bluff and dont guard and or protect other birds.

there a number of choices for meat breeds: American, Production Toulouse, Pomeranian to name a few

 

[CricketR4]

geese are all bluff and dont guard and or protect other birds.

there a number of choices for meat breeds: American, Production Toulouse, Pomeranian to name a few

All bluff, ok. I had heard something similar, mostly that geese are more likely to protect themselves, and basically say: "screw you guys! I'm getting out of here!" Any chance you think their size and noise might be enough to give a hawk pause? We're looking into getting some goats to keep with/near the chickens as I've talked to several people that say just their presence (mostly size) might deter a hawk, but hubby is still wanting geese.

 

[Going Bhonkers]

Have you seen this thread yet? https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/618185/raising-geese-101#post_8210407

 

[CricketR4]

No I did not. Thank you. I think it was a bit farther back than I looked, and I didn't do a search... not sure why I didn't do a search, since I usually do.

 

[CricketR4]

Based on Kevin's thread it looks like the best bets as far as temperament are concerned are: American Buff, Cotton Patch, Pomeranian and Pilgrim. Thanks for linking that thread!

 

[Going Bhonkers]

Based on Kevin's thread it looks like the best bets as far as temperament are concerned are: American Buff, Cotton Patch, Pomeranian and Pilgrim. Thanks for linking that thread!

Yes, that sounds about right. Glad it helped!
Here are some threads that focus on those breeds

• https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/700291/american-buff-blue-lavander-etc-goose-thread-post-pics
• https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/184281/cotton-patch-geese
• https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/685683/pomeranian-goose-breed-thread
• https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/230741/pilgrim-pics

(also, you might already know this, but it took me a while to figure out at first; if you click on "Advanced Search" then put in what you're looking for & select the Geese forum, it helps narrow it down)

 

[CricketR4]

I did not already know that! Thanks for the links, and for the tip.