Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed summary
Originating in Russia, the Russian Goose is a large, predominantly white domestic breed valued for meat, eggs and resilience in outdoor husbandry. It typically presents a calm temperament suitable for flock management in farms and free‑range systems. Typical performance indicators (ranges): adult males 8–10 kg; adult females 6–8 kg; annual egg production about 25–40 eggs; incubation period 28–30 days; hatch rate around 70–85% under good management; mature market weight reached around 16–20 weeks; expected lifespan 15–25 years with proper care. Plumage is mainly white with orange beak and legs; neck is long and the overall conformation is heavy with a broad chest. The breed adapts well to temperate climates and cold winters when provided shelter and dry conditions; feed efficiency commonly around 3.0–3.5 kg of feed per kg of weight gain.
Detailed origin
Historically developed in Russia from local domestic goose populations selected for higher meat yield and egg production. The breed name and type emerged in the 18th–19th centuries, and it spread to neighboring regions and agricultural establishments of the former Russian Empire and Soviet Union. It has been used as a base in crossbreeding programs to produce heavier goose lines and underpins regional breeding schemes.
Detailed description
Physical characteristics: large, heavy goose with predominantly white plumage, orange beak and legs; long neck; broad chest; sturdy gait. Sexual dimorphism: males heavier than females. Temperament: generally calm; suitable for flock keeping in outdoor housing; broodiness is variable depending on line. Reproductive traits: reliable egg-laying; broodiness ranges from low to moderate; incubation period 28–30 days; growth and meat yield are high in well-managed flocks; management: requires dry shelter, outdoor space and access to water for preening and feeding; climate: well-suited to temperate climates and cold winters; longevity: 15–25 years.