Hatching goslings, Kangaroo-Care, for when you need every chick to survive due to rare-breed, or difficult to hatch breeds and crosses.

[Der Vogelhof]

Skin to skin, aka "kangaroo care" in human pediatrics, helps these goslings dry off and feel strong emotionally when you are not batch-setting and goslings come out without hatchmates. You do the first exposure as soon as they are dry but the down-film hasn't flaked off, once the navel shrinks closed, usually ready for it just a few hours after they kick out.


And if you have a weak gos from a bad hatch, it can save their life. If you have a bra, just pop them them in and put a sweater or sweatshirt on to trap the heat-our body temp is perfect for them, and our breath sounds and heartbeat mimic what they experience under a mother-goose.
This is the other school-of-thought vs the “only keep what hatches” for artificial goose incubation, and both have their strengths and times to adhere to them.

 

[Berd Man]

Interesting.

I think I would get itchy from all the little hairs they shed in the downy phase.

 

[Der Vogelhof]

Interesting.

I think I would get itchy from all the little hairs they shed in the downy phase.

There is not itching or discomfort unless you have an allergy to bird dander. I experience no skin irritation.

This is standard protocol for wildlife rehabbers.

 

[Berd Man]

I have no allergies to fowl dander that I’m aware of but tiny eyelash size hairs that poke and itch would probably be a deal breaker for me. I have seen how they go everywhere when I’m cleaning out incubators and usually I find them a nuisance. Have to wear a mask and all that or I’ll be sneezing them out all day.

This is very good that you’re saving some geese/birds in this fashion. I consider myself fortunate that I’ve not had to attempt such measures. Sometimes an early hatch or lone bird ends up sitting with my dog, Daisy, for some time until others join. She is an odd dog.