Sign in person Nous contacter

Browse the complete list of breeds and varieties for this species, along with the associations and federations that oversee them.

Species summary

Goose is a large waterfowl (family Anatidae) whose domestic form derives from the wild graylag goose (Anser anser). Typical weights for domestic geese range from 4 to 9 kg, with males generally heavier than females (roughly 5–9 kg in many breeds vs 4–7 kg for females). Some heavy meat breeds can reach 10–12 kg. Lifespan in captivity is commonly 15–25 years. They have long necks, broad bodies, and strong bills adapted to grazing. Plumage is predominantly white in most meat breeds, though many color varieties exist (gray-brown, pied, etc.). Their diet is herbivorous, consisting mainly of grass, cereals, and vegetables; they require access to clean water for drinking and for cleaning the beak and feathers. Geese are highly social birds that form long-term pairs during the breeding season. Reproductive output depends on breed but typically 20–40 eggs per year; incubation period is 28–32 days; goslings hatch weighing about 120–180 g and grow rapidly, reaching market weight in 8–12 weeks in meat-focused strains. In modern farming, geese are kept primarily for meat and eggs, with some production for down.

Detailed origin

Domestic geese originated from the wild graylag goose (Anser anser) in Europe and western Asia. The domestication process began in antiquity, with evidence dating from roughly 3000–2000 BCE and records in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Through selective breeding, white plumage and other color variants were developed across regions. Today, domestic geese are raised worldwide, with major production in Europe, Asia, and North America. They are valued for meat, eggs, and down; some regional breeds are selected for dual-purpose use or for ornamental plumage.

Detailed description

Morphology: adult geese have a long neck, a broad chest, and a sturdy body. Typical weights: 4–7 kg for medium breeds, 8–12 kg for the heaviest lines. Plumage ranges from pure white to gray, brown, or pied patterns depending on breed. Beak is orange-yellow; legs are pink to orange. The wings are suited for longer flights in wild-type geese; however, many domestic lines are comparatively heavy and poor fliers. Behavior: geese are grazers and foragers that can be quite vocal; they are social and form stable pairs or family groups. Reproduction: season typically in spring; clutch sizes commonly 4–8 eggs; incubation 28–32 days; goslings are precocial and begin walking within hours of hatching; sexual maturity is usually reached at 2–3 years; growth to market weight varies by breed but is commonly 8–12 weeks in meat lines.

Available breeds

Known varieties