Goose Breeds

Goose Breeds: Toulouse, Emden, African, Chinese, Canada and Other Breeds

Geese are domesticated waterfowl raised primarily for meat, eggs, feathers, and ornamental purposes. Different goose breeds vary considerably in body size, growth rate, reproductive performance, plumage, temperament, and production characteristics.

Several goose breeds are recognized worldwide, each with distinct characteristics and production potential. The major breeds include:

• Toulouse
• Emden
• African
• Chinese
• Canada
• Buff
• Pilgrim
• Sebastopol
• Egyptian

Toulouse

• Originated in France. Some strains are non-broody, and the goose is a fair layer among the heavy breeds.
• Goslings tend to grow slowly and must be kept to an older age before they are ready for market.
• The flesh is coarser than that of the Emden, and the proportion of bone and offal is high.
• The progeny of a Toulouse goose crossed with an Emden gander grows rapidly and has good fleshing qualities. Gander: 14 kg; Goose: 9 kg.

Emden

• Originated in Hanover, Germany.
• It is a heavy breed, a prolific breeder with a quiet disposition, and is currently the most popular breed in New South Wales.
• Emdens are good egg producers (up to 40 eggs per season), good sitters, early-maturing, and good foragers.
• Because the feathers of Emdens are white, they are of greater value than those of other geese.
• Goslings can be sexed at one day of age with a reasonable degree of accuracy, as females have darker down than males.
• The bill, legs, and feet are bright orange, and the hard, tight plumage is pure, glossy white. Other goose breeds include African, Chinese, Egyptian, and Canada.