Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed Summary
The Poitou Goose is one of the largest French domestic goose breeds. It is distinguished by its imposing size and calm temperament. Historically valued for meat production, it is now regarded as a heritage breed and remains relatively rare, maintained by conservation programs in France and other parts of Europe. Indicative quantitative data (approximate): - Weight: males 9–12 kg; females 7–10 kg. - Eggs per year: about 25–40. - Incubation period: 28–30 days. - Sexual maturity: around 9–12 months. - Lifespan: 12–20 years. - Carcass yield: roughly 55–65% of body weight.
Detailed Origin
Originating from Poitou, a western region of France, the Poitou Goose developed from sturdy local geese and was refined through crossbreeding with heavier lines during the 18th–19th centuries to increase size. It was widely kept for meat and was standardized in the 19th century. After World War II, numbers declined due to changes in farming practices, but conservation efforts began in the 1980s–1990s. Today, populations remain small but are preserved as a heritage breed in France and across Europe under conservation programs.
Detailed Description
Morphological and productive characteristics: a very large, heavy-bodied goose with a long neck and robust frame; plumage is predominantly white; beak and legs are typically orange-yellow. Docile and easy to handle; growth is relatively slow but meat yield is high. Good adaptability to pasture-based systems with robust foraging. Reproduction: regular laying, with hatch rates generally high under good management. Maturity around 9–12 months; eggs per year 25–40; life expectancy 12–20 years. Seasonal breeders with some variation based on day length. Selection criteria include body weight and muscular development.