Shandong is located in the temperate northern climate, where it is cold but not extremely so, and warm without being humid. This favorable weather makes it ideal for the growth and reproduction of geese. For instance, the same species of goose lays about 20 eggs per year in Guangdong, but can lay between 60 to 80 eggs in Shandong. The region has a rich supply of food crops, including various crop straws, maggots, and vines that serve as high-quality feed for geese. Additionally, weeds, wild herbs, and forage grasses provide excellent natural feed sources. With numerous lakes, ponds, and rivers, Shandong offers an ideal environment for raising geese.
The Wulong goose, a well-known breed from Shandong, is particularly valued for its quality and productivity. In recent years, the geese industry in Shandong has developed rapidly, leading to a "south goose breeding" model. However, many people are now facing challenges such as how to raise geese effectively, how to produce high-quality geese, and how to maximize economic returns from goose farming.
Since 2005, we have been involved in goose breeding and have accumulated initial experience. Based on practical knowledge, we divide the gosling rearing process into three stages: the brooding stage (days 1–30), the maintenance stage (days 31–65), and the fattening stage (days 65–80). Mastering these three stages is key to successful goose farming.
The brooding stage is the most critical period for raising healthy and high-quality geese. At this time, the goslings are small, with weak disease resistance and poor adaptability to external conditions. To ensure good health and development, we focus on three key areas: temperature, humidity, and density.
Temperature is especially important during brooding. If it's too high, geese may become overheated, showing signs like standing still, drooping wings, shallow breathing, increased water intake, and reduced feed consumption. If it's too low, goslings may huddle together, which can lead to death. The ideal temperature varies depending on the season, time of day, and the density of the flock. We follow the principle of “four highs and four lows†— higher temperatures in winter, lower in summer; higher at night, lower during the day; higher when the density is low, lower when it's high; higher when sick, lower when healthy. Temperature should be stable, avoiding sudden changes.
Humidity is also crucial. Although geese are waterfowl, their housing should remain dry and well-ventilated. High humidity combined with heat can reduce appetite and weaken immunity, while low humidity can cause dryness and respiratory issues. Maintaining proper humidity levels helps ensure healthy feather development and overall well-being.
Density plays a major role in goose farming. Overcrowding can lead to poor growth, lower weight, and disease outbreaks. On the other hand, too little density may waste space and make it harder to maintain warmth. Finding the right balance ensures survival rates and efficient use of resources.
In addition to temperature, humidity, and density, feeding practices are essential. Two key aspects are timing and quantity. Feeding at regular intervals helps establish a conditioned reflex, ensuring geese are ready to eat. The number of feedings per day depends on the age of the geese. Quantitative feeding ensures they receive adequate nutrition without overfeeding or wasting feed. Coarse and green feed should be provided, and by day five, sand trays can be introduced for free feeding.
Lighting is another important factor. Natural sunlight helps regulate body temperature and provides antibacterial benefits. Artificial lighting is used when needed, with light intensity adjusted based on age. For example, 40W bulbs are used for young goslings, and 25W bulbs for older ones. Light should be placed about 2 meters above the birds.
During the brooding phase, hygiene, disinfection, vaccination, and grouping are also essential. Grazing and bathing should be done according to weather conditions, starting with shallow water to help them adapt gradually.
After the brooding stage, geese enter the maintenance phase, where their skeleton and feathers grow, and their digestive system develops. During this time, they need more fibrous feed. Three feeding methods are used: grazing, semi-grazing, and full-house feeding. Each method has its own advantages, depending on available resources.
Finally, the fattening stage begins around day 65, where feed amounts are increased to promote weight gain. Corn and mixed feed are used, with concentrates making up 80–90% of the diet. Grass and plant materials fill the remaining portion.
Geese are naturally cold-resistant, but proper housing is essential. They should have shelter from wind, access to open spaces, and suitable areas for movement and bathing.
Zhu Ning, Ningyang County Rural Veterinary Station
Dong Xiaofu, Shandong Xinyuan Grass Industry Company
Zhao Lei, Shandong Xinyuan Grass Industry Company – Meat Goose Breeding Base
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