How to Set Goose Eggs

While geese are not as common as chickens, it is estimated that they comprise 0.2 percent of the poultry population of the United States. More and more individuals are getting interested in these multiple-purpose birds for the dinner table, as pets or to serve as feathered watch dogs. In addition, geese also provide feather down, weed-free gardens and hours of entertainment. Individuals interested in having their own gaggle of geese can purchase goslings, grown birds or opt to incubate their own by purchasing fertile eggs. With a few minor adjustments in conditions, hatching goslings is as easy and rewarding as hatching chicken eggs.

Things You'll Need

  • Incubator
  • Soft-lead pencil
  • Digital thermometer/hygrometer
  • Spray bottle
  • Brooder
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the incubator thoroughly and make sure everything is operating properly two to three days before you plan to set the eggs.

    • 2

      Select only the best eggs. Discard any that are oddly shaped, heavily soiled or cracked.

    • 3

      Mark opposite sides of the eggs with an "X" and an "O." These marks make it easier to see if the eggs have been turned.

    • 4

      Place the marked eggs on the incubator rack. Be careful not to crowd the eggs. Set the thermometer on the rack near the eggs. Place it so you can read the numbers without opening the incubator.

    • 5

      Allow several hours for the eggs to warm up before making any adjustments to the incubator settings. Maintain the temperature at 99 degrees F and the humidity at 86 to 88 percent.

    • 6

      Turn the eggs four to six times per day.

    • 7

      Spray the eggs with water twice a week for the first two weeks and three times per week during the last 10 days of the incubation period.

    • 8

      Stop turning the eggs on the 25th day.

    • 9

      Increase the humidity to 90 to 94 percent. Increase ventilation by making sure both vents are open.

    • 10

      Avoid opening the incubator during the last three days of the incubation to avoid loss of temperature and humidity.

    • 11

      Wait until the goslings are dry and fluffy before opening the incubator. Transfer the goslings all at once to the brooder and discard any unhatched eggs.