When can I let goslings go without water and feed at night

[Susan Hillside]

What age in weeks do you decide it is ok to take away food and water from goslings at night. I read in Holderread's "Story guide to raising ducks", he says several weeks. And I know that book is about ducks and not geese. I actually have the same question for ducks!

I have 7 pilgrim goslings in one large still with 4 adults and they all get along very well. The goslings are 3 weeks old now and I'm considering eliminating the water and food at night so that the barn stays cleaner. What are your thoughts? Thanks for your help.

Susan

 

[cavemanrich]

I don't think food and water is necessary during night-time hours. In nature geese would assumably sleep during night, as most fowl, and their little gooslings would be next to or under mama.
I know that baby chickens (chicks) when in a brooder with a heatlamp, will get snacks, and a drink of water at will. The light provides a means for them to see. When under a broody, those same chicks would not eat, or dring while dark.
I think you can safely remove the food, and water from your barn if you wish. You want things to be somewhat clean. You can choose to leave a dish of water if you want. This way they can get a drink, when first wake, and before you arrive with feed.

WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

 

[Susan Hillside]

Thank you so much for a such a helpful reply. Your answer is so pragmatic. My goslings and ducklings were all reared by geese or ducks. So they are well cared for. I think I will leave one dish/pan of water for them but take away the food. It will keep the barn cleaner and I have to be a away for a few days and it will make it easier for my farmsitter to manage the place! Thanks so much.