Which goose breed? Update 6-18-11

[Eroc1_1]

I am thinking that I may add a couple geese to my growing number of ducks. I am looking for something that is a little more calm since our kids will be helping with chores and care. I would prefer a small to medium breed. I had it narrowed down to a few breeds from either Holderreads/Metzer: Pilgrim, Plain Headed Roman, Pomeranian, Brown Chinese, and Shetland.

We have a number of wild Canadian Geese(about 30) that have made the pond on the property home. They sometimes keep the ducks from entering the pond...

 

[roocrazy]

...i know its not on your list, but the embden is a very sweet and calm goose in my expirience. i had an emben who lived through a tornado.

i dont know HOW she LIVED but she was just a sweet heart, until she was killed by an owl

but now she is a REAL angel

 

[Eroc1_1]

Quote:
Thank you for the suggestion, Roocrazy. I am not opposed to Embden. I know sometimes calmness can also be an individual trait instead of breed specific. I know that geese can be noisy....I would prefer less noisy in case we move.

 

[roocrazy]

hmmm, i guess ive never really heard a quit goose.?

 

[Eroc1_1]

Quote:
Let's put it this way, I am sure the domesticated goose/geese will be quieter than the 30+ Canadian Geese honking at all hours of the day/night (especially in the early spring).

 

[tstilwell]

I would suggest chinese (brown or white), they can get noisy, but only when they feel threatened by something. They could be excellent "guard dogs" for your ducks. Of course I'm partial to chinese....

 

[Eroc1_1]

Quote:
I think that the Brown Chinese are a nice looking breed. I kinda like the 'bump' on the back part of the bill and the coloration.

 

[tstilwell]

Quote:
I think that the Brown Chinese are a nice looking breed. I kinda like the 'bump' on the back part of the bill and the coloration.

I have 8 white chinese, and a gander that is mixed (father white, mother brown). This gander is over 10 years old, and is extremely gentle (likes to be picked up). However he is an excellent protector of the flock.

 

[scratch'n'peck]

Did you check out the goose breed characteristic chart on Metzer farm web site? I have Pilgrim and Sebastopol and they are starting to nest, and so far no witnessing of aggressive behavior.

 

[Eroc1_1]

scratch'n'peck :

Did you check out the goose breed characteristic chart on Metzer farm web site? I have Pilgrim and Sebastopol and they are starting to nest, and so far no witnessing of aggressive behavior.

I didn't actually see that section until you mentioned it. Thank you. That will help me out. Good info.​