Hobbies And Interests
Chinese and Greylag Geese
Most domesticated geese are descended from the Greylag, a European variety, and Chinese geese. Both are smaller than most breeds of modern domesticated fowl. Greylags are relatively compact and muscular, while Chinese geese have long, elegant necks, rather like swans. Greylags have plumage in various shades of gray and tan, while the Chinese goose comes in white and colored versions. Greylags and white Chinese geese both have orange bills. The Chinese goose also has a bony, orange forehead ridge to match its bill.
Embden Geese
The Embden goose is what many people picture when they think of a domesticated goose. Embdens are very large geese, with males weighing up to 26 lbs. at maturity. Their plumage is pure white, and their beaks and legs are orange. Their bills are relatively short and stubby. Embdens were brought to America by German immigrants, many years ago. They are prolific egg layers. Although they are a large goose, they are not as meaty as the French Toulouse breed.
Toulouse Geese
The Toulouse is another large breed, originating in the area around the French city of the same name. Toulouse males can reach 26 lbs. at maturity, while females can reach 20 lbs. The plumage of a Toulouse is in various shades of gray, with a thin edge of white along the ends of the feathers. The belly and tail are white, and their beaks are orange. Toulouse geese are primarily raised as a meat breed.
Sebastopol Geese
The Sebastopol, or Sevastopol, is native to Eastern Europe. It is a mid-sized goose, with mature weights about half those of the Embden or Toulouse. The Sebastopol is raised primarily for decorative purposes. Its beak is bright orange, its eyes are vividly blue, and its plumage is pure white. Its unusual appearance is due to its feathers, which are long and curly, and give it an unconventional appearance. Sebastopols can be raised for meat or eggs, but are less efficient in either role than more specialized birds.