Taming Sebastopol Goslings

[L0rraine]

I brought home an adult pair of Sebastopol geese a few months ago (my first exposure to geese). The female immediately went broody and the male got a bit bored and ‘hung out’ with the humans. He wouldn’t let us touch him, but would follow us everywhere and nibble a bit. When the four goslings hatched he immediately took on the roll of doting Dad. The problem is, is that both parent geese are super protective and won’t let us anywhere near the goslings which are now about ten days old. Will we be able to tame these little guys? Right now they are terrified of us. Any suggestions on the possibility of a friendly flock when they weren’t imprinted on humans as goslings?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I go out of my way to not imprint my goslings on me. I guess it depends what you want out of them.

The goslings I've raised always have run from me, while also following me. As adults they come forward when I have something good to eat, and don't fear me.

When yours grow up they should be like your adults. Geese are curious birds which keeps they from holding onto that natural fear they have when young. Just talk to them so they know your voice. The parents will eventually stop being so protective.

 

[L0rraine]

I go out of my way to not imprint my goslings on me. I guess it depends what you want out of them.

The goslings I've raised always have run from me, while also following me. As adults they come forward when I have something good to eat, and don't fear me.

When yours grow up they should be like your adults. Geese are curious birds which keeps they from holding onto that natural fear they have when young. Just talk to them so they know your voice. The parents will eventually stop being so protective.

Thank you - that’s reassuring.