Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed Summary
The Normande Goose is a large, robust dual-purpose breed developed in Normandy, France. It is valued for its meat production and reliable egg yield, and it adapts well to small farms and free-range systems. Quantitative notes: typical adult females weigh 5–7 kg and males 7–9 kg; annual egg production ranges from 40 to 60 eggs; incubation period for eggs is 28–30 days; maturation to market weight occurs at about 5–7 months; expected productive life with good care is 15–25 years.
Detailed Origin
Origin details: The Normande Goose originates from Normandy, France. It was developed during the 19th and early 20th centuries through selective breeding of local heavy geese and crossbreeding with other meat breeds to increase size and vigor. The breed became established in Normandy and beyond as a traditional French dual-purpose breed. It is well adapted to temperate climates and free-range management.
Detailed Description
Description details: Appearance: large, heavy-bodied bird with a relatively long neck; plumage is typically white with occasional gray shading in some lines; beak and legs are commonly orange-pink. Flight ability is limited. Temperament is calm and confident, making it manageable in small flocks. Feeding: thrives on pasture with supplemental grains. Reproduction: females lay regular eggs, goslings hatch after 28–30 days. Growth: reaching market weight generally occurs within 8–12 weeks under good management. Health and welfare: robust, but requires sufficient space, protection for goslings from cold, and routine biosecurity.