[mollymonster]

Hello, I am doing a project at school on a Shetland Geese breeding programme, but I know nothing about geese or how to breed them. I have experience looking after Bantams and Brahmas and other poultry but I don't know how to look after geese.

For the project I need to know how many geese will be needed for a successful breeding programme, if they should be kept in groups or in pairs and when their breeding season is. Also does anyone know where I can buy Shetland geese (either adult, goslings or eggs) in the UK?

Any help would be much appreciated!
Thanks.

[sokel]

Just googled them and there is a breeder in York with some info on their website

[HesterF]

I don't know how you define a successful breeding programme (is that defined as part of your project?) but for rare breeds, I guess you should try and get at least two unrelated pairs. Then you can breed unrelated pairs as well. You can also keep them in trios but I believe the ganders do need separating in breeding season so best not in a small group with more than one gander. The other problem with groups is that you wouldn't know the parentage which I imagine is not great for a careful breeding programme.

No idea where to get Shetlands although it might be worth contacting the British Waterfowl Association - they'll have a list of breeders. They'll be no eggs at the moment - geese start laying in late Feb and tend to lay through until about June (unless they start brooding).

H

[shygirl]

there are breeders in shetland.

are you actually wanting to buy some or just need the info for school?

http://www.burlandcrofttrail.co.uk/page_1150320.html