One thing we’ve had to educate potential buyers about: geese are NOT true guardians. They’re almost as defenseless as chickens – but they make excellent alarm systems. They’re constantly on the lookout and will alert the flock to danger, then everyone runs away together while the real guardians (dogs, people, etc.) handle the problem.
If there is a predator and the geese can’t get away, they will not survive the encounter. Ganders sometimes try to stand up to predators, but most of the time it does not end well.
Geese are incredibly smart and sensitive. They can live a long time (often 20+ years, and sometimes much longer). If someone hurts one, it’ll remember. If someone is kind, it remembers that too. When they imprint on you, they’ll follow you around like puppies. A favorite treat that ours all seem to love is romaine lettuce.
During breeding season (usually March through July), geese can get snippy – but the rest of the year they’re sweet and curious. They wander our pastures just checking out what we (or the other animals) are doing. We love them and hope to always have them.
Looking to learn more or purchase our geese?
This medium-sized heritage breed was created right here in the Midwest. Pilgrim Geese are known for their calm, friendly nature and are relatively quiet compared to many other goose breeds.
They’re also autosexing, meaning males and females can usually be distinguished at hatch based on coloration – a huge plus for anyone planning a balanced flock. Pilgrims are excellent grazers, cold-hardy, and well suited for homesteads looking for a practical, personable goose breed without the constant noise.