GOOSE

GEESE PRODUCTION IN INDIA: CARE AND MANAGEMENT

October 25, 2022

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GEESE PRODUCTION IN INDIA: CARE AND MANAGEMENT

As in case of ducks, the term “Geese” actually refers to a female, but, it is often used as a general term for both sexes. Geese also belong to the group of water fowls. Do you know that about 6 or 7 geese can yield 1 kg of feathers which is used for bedding and clothing. They eat grass and can live entirely on pasture. You might be of the opinion that broilers are fastest growing among poultry species; but it is not so. Geese are the fastest growing among all species of poultry reared for meat, eggs and fancy. However, the meat composition, as you have know for duck meat, is not very ideal for humans and hence, broilers are preferred. Goose meat has about 16% protein and 36% fat.

Goose farming that can generate huge returns at low cost. Geese can be started with any farming method i.e. as an integrated farming and as an enterprise. Only a few safe areas with access to water and grass are sufficient to start this farming. A three-month-old baby costs between Rs 1500-2000. The goose is not only an ornamental bird but also mainly for meat purposes. About 4000 years ago, the Egyptians discovered that it could be domesticated and that its flesh was edible.

Today the goose can be seen all over the world. We need to explore the social life of this. It is a pleasure to watch the romantic moments between the spouses and the excessive affection shown to her children.

General Features

Do you know how to differentiate ducks and geese? Geese are generally bigger in size with longer neck and cylindrical (round – type) bills without bean/horn at the tip (Fig. 2.4). In fact, bills look more or less similar to beaks of chicken. Sound produced by geese is referred to as “Honking” which will be different from that of ducks. Like ducks, geese also do not have combs and wattles. In some breeds though, males will have tufts on the head.

Sexing

Males are called “Ganders” and females “Geese”. Except in case of breed called “Pilgrim”, sex determination is by the examination of reproductive organs which is done as follows: Goose is kept tail end away over the edge of the table or knee so that it can be readily bent downwards. After doing so, vaseline-smeared index finger is inserted 1-2 cm into vent (anus/cloaca) and moved in a circular manner till the opening relaxes. Then, pressure is applied directly below and on side of the vent to expose the accessory sex organ of the gander. In case of Pilgrim breed, colour of feathers will be darker (gray) with brown eyes in females and white or light feathers and blue eyes in case of males.

Types of geese

There are two main types of geese found in India. White geese and gray Chinese geese are the favorite species of those engaged in this project in India. Chinese geese are ahead of the rest in terms of meat weight. If you want to start a business, try to choose quality puppies of the same species. Although similar in appearance to ducks, they differ in characteristics, diet, and health. They are more immune than chickens and ducks.

The Indian Subcontinent provides suitable habitats to various species of birds for residing and nesting. Gooses are no exception in this regard. Various types of gooses have been recorded in India. They belong to the kingdom, Animalia; phylum, Chordata; class, Aves; order, Anseriformes; and family Anatidae. These gooses are described below.

Cotton Pygmy Goose
Cotton Pygmy Goose breeds in the Indian subcontinent and is a widespread resident of the country. The dominant color on the body of the goose is white. The breeding male has rounded head. It has a glossy blackish green crown. Its head, neck and underparts are white. The bird has a conspicuous black collar and white wing-bar. This goose has short legs. The green wings of the bird with a white band, makes it stand out amongst the flying flocks of the lesser whistling duck, which share the habitat. The female bird is paler. The non-breeding male appears similar to the female except for his white wing-bar. It is important to note that small individuals of this species are the smallest waterfowls on the planet, weighing as less as 160 g (5.6 oz) and measures as small as 26 cm (10 in).

Greylag Goose
Greylag Goose has been traced in northern India. This bird often visits northern parts of India in winter. This is a grayish-brown bird. The bird has darker head, paler breast and belly with a variable amount of black spotting. A white line borders the bird’s upper flanks. Its wing coverts are light-colored, contrasting with its darker flight feathers. Its plumage is patterned by the pale fringes of the feathers. If the bird is devoid of a black-speckling on the breast and belly, it is then identified as a juvenile goose. The male bird is generally larger than the female goose.

Red-Breasted Goose
Red-Breasted Goose has occasionally been traced in India. This bird is recognized as having blackish back. As the name of the bird suggests, it has a reddish brown breast. The legs and bill of the bird have been identified as dark grey in color. This goose is a medium sized bird and has been labeled as ‘endangered’ by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). The male bird is larger than its female counterpart.

Bar-Headed Goose
Bar-Headed Goose winters in peninsular India. This goose is a pale grey bird. The black bars on the head help to easily distinguish the bird from any other grey geese of the genus Anser. It is also much paler than the other geese in this genus.

Housing

Since geese are foragers (eat grass by themselves), they are generally let out in the day for foraging and given shelter in the night. You already know this as semi-intensive system of rearing

Geese rearing and breeding

Not only this, the food cost of goose is very low compared to ducks and chickens. Geese can be reared on kitchen waste, wheat or chicken feed. Greens are their favorite. They are self-sufficient to go out and find food. Geese are ahead of other waterfowl in terms of cleanliness. Not only do they keep their body clean but they also do not hesitate to clean the environment in which they behave. They do not like to be treated in a dirty place. One feature worth noting is that sewage geese are not even willing to taste one. Only a small deep pond is sufficient for goose farming.

They mate in water. Proper breeding is possible in water as their body weight is high. They lay eggs twice a year. They lay their eggs around January-August. About 60 eggs are laid in a year. However, they have a lower hatching percentage. It is our duty to provide a very clean place where they can lay their eggs inside their cages or wherever they go. It is very practical to put leaves inside the tyre and close them. Normal egg production takes place at night or early in the morning. An egg weighs about 140 grams. Geese lay eggs for a maximum of 13 eggs. There are people all over India today who incubate eggs through incubator technology. The eggs hatch in 30-35 days. Due to the good thickness of the egg shell, all the eggs are relatively less likely to hatch. Baby goose do not need any significant care. We can adapt them to any type of feed. It is important to note that babies gain weight very quickly. Therefore, if they are reared for meat purposes, goose rearing is more desirable.

Geese reach adulthood within an average of one and a half years. The life cycle of a goose is about 30 years. They can be used for breeding for up to 12 years. Some geese are aggressive during breeding but are generally calm.

Care and management

Geese are found to provide the same level of care to all their young, regardless of whether they are young or not. We must be careful not to drop small or yellow-winged babies into the water as much as possible. It is said that geese are equal to dogs in intelligence. They are good at making noise when strangers enter the house. But these do not harm humans in any way. They are much easier to handle than other organisms. Even children who are interested in such areas can start this as a small venture. Prices in the market range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 per pair.

Management

If artificial brooding is practiced, it is similar to chicken; but goslings must be let out on the short grass as soon after hatching as possible. Litter management is very important because the faecal matter contains more moisture than chicken. (i) Debilling Geese are not debilled. Can you imagine why? It is for the simple reason that they are generally left for grazing and if you remove bills, they cannot graze. (ii) Incubation and Hatching While breeding, 5 geese per gander are allowed for at least some weeks in separate pens. Afterwards, ganders can identify their partner (mates) even when all are mixed together. Specific observation has to be made to avoid gander mating or not mating few geese which is called “Preferential mating”. Number of nests required, as in case of chicken, is 30% of the number of females. If eggs are held for more than 2 days in the cold storage, they have to be turned. Incubation period is 29 to 31 days except in case of Egyptian geese which take 35 days. Artificial incubation is difficult as they require higher humidity and therefore, natural incubation under chicken, turkey or duck is practiced. If chicken are used, they cannot turn goose eggs and hence turning has to be done manually. Sprinkling of water or dipping hatching eggs in water for 30 seconds daily during last half of incubation increases hatchability. Hatched gosling should be quickly removed to a warm place. Otherwise, the brooding goose will leave the unhatched eggs to take care of newly-hatched one. (iii) Geese as weeders Weeds are unwanted plants which affect crop productivity. Farmers use several methods to remove weeds. Geese can be employed as good weeders on crops like cotton, onions, garlic, strawberries etc. and not on cabbage or lettuce on which the geese themselves feed. For this purpose, 6 week old goslings are fed only a light feed of grain the night before to keep them hungry and let out on the field the next day morning. Sufficient shade and water must be provided all through the crop area.

Feeding

As indicated already, geese can graze efficiently. However, for scientific feeding, the following requirements are recommended. Geese also prefer pellets.

Table 2.3:

Nutrient Requirements of Geese

Nutrient 0-2 weeks 3-7 weeks Breeding

Metabolizable Energy, kcal/kg 2900 3000 2900

Crude Protein, % 20 15

Lysine, % 1.0 0.85 0.60

Methionine + Cystine, % 0.60 0.50

Calcium, % 0.65 0.60 2.25

Phosphorus, non-phytin, % 0.30

Vitamin A, IU/kg 1500 4000

Vitamin D3, ICU/kg 200

Riboflavin, mg/kg 3.8

GOOSE DISEASES

Geese are relatively free from many diseases, but are commonly affected by internal parasites. You can easily tell why so? They are let out for foraging and hence, they pick-up worm eggs. Regular deworming will help to control internal parasites.

In this chapter the most common goose diseases are listed, described, and the appropriate treatments proposed. A well-managed production system which includes cleanliness, know-how, and disease prophylactic practices can greatly reduce the incidence of many diseases. A list of 16 recommendations to contribute to the control and prevention of disease is provided.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF DISEASE

examine the geese before buying them. Buy geese only from a reliable breeder;
before the arrival of new geese, make sure that there is adequate good quality feed and water;
keep feed troughs and drinkers clean;
provide a stress-free environment for the geese (away from noise and other disturbing elements);
do not add birds from an outside source to your own flock; if you must have additional geese, it is better to establish a second flock;
keep breeders away from growing geese;
the younger the geese, the more susceptible they are to diseases so never mix geese of different ages;
give timely vaccines and medications. Always use the correct vaccine or medication at the recommended dose;
when inspecting the geese, always go from the youngest to the oldest;
isolate any sick geese immediately. Removing sick geese from a flock reduces the number of infectious organisms available to pen mates;
safely destroy dead geese immediately by either incinerating or burying them. Get an early diagnostic report by sending sample carcasses to a veterinary laboratory for a diagnosis of the cause of death;
discourage visitors to the farm and do not allow visitors without protective clothing onto the farm. Make sure that they have not been near other geese for at least 14 days prior to their visit;
when selling geese, do not allow a buyer to bring unclean crates and/or boxes onto the farm for transporting the geese;
thoroughly clean and disinfect the building and equipment between flocks of geese. This may not render the building sterile but it can reduce the number of infectious organisms to such a low level that they cannot initiate a flock infection;
as much as possible, keep wild birds out of your pens;
maintain complete records at all times.

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In the following pages a list of goose diseases classified alphabetically is provided. An alternative classification could be according to infectious agent i.e. bacteria, fungi, protozoa or viruses.

ASPERGILLOSIS

Aspergillosis is defined as any disease condition caused by a member of the fungal genus Aspergillus. In the goose, as in most other classes of poultry, the organs most affected are the lungs, hence the term Pulmonary Aspergillosis. The disease can be quite severe in young goslings as they may become infected during hatching and even embryos may become infected. The source of infection can be either dirty incubator equipment and/or dirty eggs. Dirty eggs can contaminate both the setter and hatcher. In addition, it is possible for Aspergillus to penetrate the egg which is how embryos can become infected. Young growing goslings are also susceptible to Aspergillosis but usually not as severely although they can be infected from contaminated litter.

Symptoms. The symptoms are difficult and accelerated breathing (gasping) with rattling or gurgling noises. The birds might be very depressed and mortality can be high. Nervous symptoms may appear in a small percentage of the birds and can be accompanied by increased thirst and diarrhoea.

Treatment. The first step is to clean the hatching facilities, organize a good sanitation programme and ensure that all hatching eggs are cleaned and fumigated as soon as possible after laying. Mouldy feed and litter must be removed and destroyed and the building cleaned and disinfected with 1:2000 copper sulphate. The treatment of Aspergillosis is not always effective. Nystatin and Amphoteciricine-B have proven to be the most effective medications for geese. If these are not available, a recommended low cost treatment consists of 5 percent potassium iodine in the drinking water for three days, followed by two days of no treatment and then a second treatment for three days.

AVIAN ADENOVIRUS

The Avian Adenovirus Group 1 has been isolated from geese but the role of these pathogens is not clear. The disease is not a problem in geese, and no vaccine is available.

CHLAMYDIOSIS

Chlamydiosis is a general term which refers to infections caused by a bacterium of the genus Chlamydophila. In birds, the disease is caused by Chlamydophila psittaci and, although reported in geese, is very rare. It is however a disease of public health significance in that it is transmissible to other animals as well as to humans.

Symptoms. The disease has been reported to affect a wide range of organs with symptoms including mild respiratory difficulties, conjunctivitis, inflammation of the sinuses, rhinitis, diarrhoea and atrophy of the breast muscle.

Treatment. The antibiotics of choice to treat this disease are the tetracyclines. In some cases salmonellosis may be a complicating factor and it may be necessary to use a combination of antibiotics.

COCCIDIOSIS

Geese can get two distinct types of coccidiosis. The most prevalent form is renal coccidiosis caused by Eimeria truncata. While intestinal coccidiosis is less prevalent, it is caused primarily by Eimeria anseris. At least five additional species of Eimeria have been isolated from the intestine of the goose. The level of infection and degree of economic loss associated with coccidiosis in the goose is generally low and it is not regarded as a major problem.

Symptoms. Renal coccidiosis can affect geese from 3-12 weeks of age, although the younger birds are much more susceptible. In an exceptional acute form, renal coccidiosis can result in mortality as high as 80 percent. Other indicators of the disease include depression, weakness, diarrhoea, whiteish faeces, anorexia, dull, sunken eyes and drooped wings. Diagnosis of renal coccidiosis can be confirmed by locating the distinctive oocysts in the kidneys and in the cloaca near the urethras. Birds quickly develop immunity to re-infection by Eimeria truncata.

Intestinal coccidiosis also mostly affects young birds but does not always result in mortality. Rather, the infection produces anorexia, a tottering gait, debility, diarrhoea and morbidity. The small intestine becomes enlarged and filled with reddish brown fluid. Lesions are primarily in the middle and lower portion of the small intestine.

Treatment. Various sulphonamide drugs and coccidiostats have been used in the treatment of renal and intestinal coccidiosis of geese. If the geese are to be fed rations which were formulated for other types of poultry, it should be noted that in spite of popular belief to the contrary, waterfowl can be fed rations containing most of the coccidiostats used for chickens. The Veterinary University of Hanover, Germany have specifically reported that the following coccidiostats found in chicken rations are tolerated by waterfowl: amprolium, amprolium-ethopabate, clopidol, clopidol-methylbenzoquate, DOT (zoalene), lasalocid monensin-sodium, narasin, nicarbazin, robenidin, salinomycin and sulfaquinoxaline. They also reported that neither halofuginone nor arprinocid are tolerated by waterfowl and that they could find no information on the effect of giving waterfowl feed containing either decoquinate or maduramicin ammonium.

CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS

This is a protozoan disease caused by parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium which infects both the lungs and intestine of geese.

It is found worldwide wherever commercial poultry are raised and, as poultry health specialists develop appropriate tools to identify it, it is expected that more cases will be reported. This probably explains why reports from the goose industry are that its incidence seems to be on the increase.

Symptoms. One form of Cryptosporidiosis infects the respiratory tract and the symptoms include depression, sneezing and respiratory distress with moderate mortality. The other form infects the digestive tract and the symptoms include diarrhoea and, if the geese are young, can result in a relatively high mortality rate. Because a number of diseases can produce the same symptoms, fluids obtained from respiratory tract and the faeces should be examined for oocysts.

Treatment. There are no effective drugs for the prevention or treatment of Cryptosporidium. There is evidence that once infected birds recover, they are immune, but to date no vaccine has been developed. Good sanitation is recommended as a preventative measure, together with steam cleaning of infected premises. The oocysts of Cryptosporidium are extremely hardy.

DERZY’S DISEASE

Derzy’s disease is a viral disease also known as Parvovirus disease because of the causative agent. Other names include Goose Plague, Goose Hepatitis, Goose Enteritis, Goose Influenza, Infectious Myocarditis and Ascetic Hepatonephritis. It is a highly contagious disease that affects young geese. The disease has been reported to exist in any part of the world where geese or Muscovy ducks are raised since they are also susceptible to it and can transmit the disease to geese. In its acute form, the disease can result in up to 100 percent mortality rate or it can occur in a more chronic form. If birds are infected during the first week of age, very high losses can occur but if the goslings are 4-5 weeks old or older the mortality rate will be negligible.

Symptoms. For goslings under one week of age the clinical signs are morbidity (anorexia and prostration) and mortality, with deaths occurring in 2-5 days. Older birds, depending on their level of maternal immunity, will exhibit anorexia, polydipsia, weakness with a reluctance to move, nasal and ocular discharge, swollen and red uropygial glands and eyelids and a profuse white diarrhoea.

Treatment. There is no treatment for Derzy’s infection. Adult breeding geese that have been naturally infected with the parvovirus become immune and transfer this passive immunity to their progeny. This passive immunity will persist in the newly hatched goslings for 2-3 weeks. It is the phenomena of passive immunity being transmitted to the offspring that has led to the development of a recommended vaccination programme. In its simplest form, all goslings should be vaccinated at about two weeks of age. This assumes that the goslings’ parent flock had been vaccinated which would mean that the goslings’ natural passive immunity would protect them until 2-3 weeks of age. For birds not designated to be breeders, this single vaccination is sufficient. Birds designated to be breeders should be vaccinated again three weeks before the beginning of lay and three weeks before the beginning of each subsequent lay. In addition, some practitioners recommend a booster vaccination at peak egg production.

If the parent flock had not been vaccinated which would mean that no passive immunity was passed on to the goslings, the recommendation would be to give serum to the goslings on day one and on day ten to give them passive immunity and to then vaccinate them on day 21.

DUCK VIRUS ENTERITIS

Duck Virus Enteritis (DVE) is an acute, contagious disease caused by a herpes virus that can infect ducks, geese and swans although the incidence of the disease in geese is very low. DVE can be transmitted directly, by contact between infected and susceptible birds, or indirectly, by contact with a contaminated environment. Birds that have recovered from DVE are immune to re-infection by the DVE herpes virus. It should be noted that in Australia a herpes virus has been isolated from a flock of infected geese (with a mortality rate of 97 percent) which was anti-genically distinct from the duck viral enteritis herpes virus.

Symptoms. The symptoms depend on the age and sex of the geese, the stage of infection and the virulence and intensity of the virus exposure. Lesions of DVE are associated with vascular damage (tissue haemorrhages and free blood in the body cavities), vascular eruptions at various locations on the mucosa surface of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as lesions of lymphoid and other tissues.

Treatment. There is no treatment for DVE but vaccines that are effective have been developed.

ERYSIPELAS

Erysipelas is generally an acute, sudden infection of individual geese within the flock. In both young and adult birds it is caused by the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. Outbreaks of this disease which are economically significant are uncommon in avian species, with the exception of turkeys, but some cases have been reported for geese. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is somewhat unique in that it can infect over 50 animal species and can also infect humans. In the latter case, the infection usually enters through scratches or puncture wounds and is considered a safety issue for people working with infected animals. Human infections can be treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms. Infected geese will appear depressed, have diarrhoea and die suddenly. Lesions are suggestive of generalised septicaemia.

Treatment. The antibiotics of choice are rapid-acting forms of penicillin that can be administrated together with an erysipelas bacterin. Since the presence of the disease in geese is sporadic, routine immunisation is not generally recommended. However, in areas where the disease is prevalent, and particularly for breeder flocks, vaccination is recommended. Birds that have recovered from acute infections have a high degree of resistance to re-infection.

FLUKES

Flukes (trematodes) are flat, leaf-like parasitic organisms. Over 500 species belonging to 125 genera and 27 families are known to occur in birds. Generally, flukes are not a problem for geese, however, geese with access to natural lake or pond water may become infected. This is because most flukes have an aquatic snail (genus Limnaea) as an intermediate host. The dragonfly (genus Odonata) is the second intermediate host in many cases.

Symptoms. Flukes may invade almost every cavity and all tissue of birds and can show up unexpectedly at a post-mortem. One species of fluke known as the oviduct fluke (Prosthogonimus ovatus), can infect the oviduct which results in flukes appearing in the geese’s eggs.

Treatment. The only practical solution is to remove the birds from the source of infection. This can be done if the intermediate host(s) is/are known.

FIGURE 50. A sample life cycle of flukes

(Source: Guy, 1996)

(1) Infected geese excrete fluke eggs in their dropping.
(2) When the conditions are favourable, the eggs hatch, producing a primary larvae.
(3) The larvae mature in an intermediate host (a snail of genus Limnaea).
(4) The intermediate host lays the mature larvae on grass.
(5) After ingesting the larvae by grassing, the geese become re-infected.

FOWL CHOLERA

Fowl Cholera, also known as Pasteurellosis, is a contagious disease affecting all domestic and wild birds. Pasteurella multocida is the causative agent, to which geese are highly susceptible and mortality can be high.

Symptoms. Fowl Cholera usually appears as a septicaemic disease, associated with high morbidity and mortality. Perhaps the most characteristic aspect of the acute form is the sudden death of birds with the symptoms appearing only a few hours before death. The chronic form, which can follow the acute form, normally shows as localised infections. The lesions associated with this disease can take several forms, but in most cases the heart, pericardium and air sacs are damaged.

Treatment. Fowl Cholera is not a disease of the hatchery nor is it one transmitted through the egg. Rather, infection occurs when the geese are on the farm. The first step in the control of Fowl Cholera is therefore good sanitary management practices and keeping the geese separate from other birds.

In areas where Fowl Cholera is present either in geese or other species of birds, vaccination of all birds is recommended. In the case of an outbreak, it is possible to treat the birds to stop the spread of the disease, but this must be done quickly. A number of sulphonamides, such as sulphamethazine, sulphamerazine, sulphaquinoxaline and sulphathoxypyridazine have been shown to be effective when administered in the feed or water. In addition, a number of antibiotics when given intramuscularly have been shown to give good results. These include chlortetracycline, oxytetracycline, chloramphenicol and penicillin. Erythromycin in the water and both oxytetracycline and chlortetracycline in the feed have also been seen to be effective.

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LEUCOCYTOZOONOSIS

This is a parasitic disease of birds which affects the blood cells (especially the white blood cells) and the tissues of various internal organs (parasite multiplication occurs in the macrophages of brain, liver, heart, lungs, and spleen). It is a very uncommon disease in geese but outbreaks of economic significance have been reported. Leucocytozoon simondi is the causative agent in waterfowl and has been reported in 27 species of ducks and geese in North America, Europe and Vietnam.

Symptoms. Leucocytozoon infections are diagnosed by direct microscopic observation and by identification of either the gametocytes (sexual stage of the parasite) in stained blood samples or of the schizonts (stage of massive multiplication) in tissue sections.

Treatment Treatment of leucocytozoonosis with drugs has, in general, had limited success and no effective treatment has been found for Leucocytozoon simondi. Control methods require the elimination of the insect carriers that include various species of diptera (simuliid flies and culicoid midges) that live near streams.

LISTERIOSIS

Listeriosis is not a common disease of geese but some instances have been reported in temperate areas of the world. This is probably due to the fact that, in temperate climates, Listeria monocytogenus (the causative agent) is found in both faeces and soil. Also, it is in these areas that many geese are kept on pasture and therefore are exposed to the organism.

Symptoms. The symptoms are septicaemia with necrotic areas in the liver and heart. Encephalitis has been reported in young geese. Infected birds appear emaciated with diarrhoea.

Treatment. Prevention depends on eliminating the source of infection. As the organism is resistant to most commonly used antibiotics, high levels of tetracyclines are usually recommended for treatment.

MYCOPLASMA INFECTIONS

Mycoplasma infections, also know as Pleuro-Pneumonia Like Organisms or PPLO, can cause relatively serious problems in geese. These organisms have an intermediary structure between that of bacteria and viruses. At least three species of Mycoplasma (Mycoplasma anseris, Mycoplasma claucale and Strain 1220) have been isolated in geese. In recent years the prevalence of Mycoplasma infections in geese in a number of areas appears to have increased. This is most notable when birds are managed under intensive conditions.

Symptoms. The main problem of Mycoplasma infections is that in breeder flocks it results in reduced egg production and lower fertility. There is necrosis of the phallus (Venereal Disease) which can cause a severe drop in fertility. In young goslings Mycoplasma infection results in reduced growth, and respiratory and air sac infections. For young geese the common source of Mycoplasma infection is from the hatching egg.

Treatment. The most important aspect of a Mycoplasma control programme is to ensure that the grandparent and parent stocks are Mycoplasma-free so that goslings from these flocks are not infected. Treatment of eggs from an infected flock is achieved by dipping the eggs in a tylosin solution before the eggs are incubated. Infected goslings can be treated by adding either tetracycline or tylosin to their drinking water.

MYCOSIS OF THE DIGESTIVE TRACT

Mycosis of the digestive tract, caused by Candida albicans, can occur frequently in some classes of poultry but not in geese. An exception is force-fed birds, where inflammation of the oesophagus may be caused by the insertion of the corn dispenser. This inflammation can then provide a port of entry for Candida albicans.

Symptoms. The symptoms are not particularly characteristic but infected birds show unsatisfactory growth, are stunted, listless and have ruffled feathers. Lesions occur most frequently in the crop and are characterised by a whiteish deposit.

Treatment. Since unhygienic and overcrowded conditions are conducive to Candida albicans infections, the first step is to eliminate these. The addition of copper sulphate to the drinking water has had variable results in treating chickens and geese. Sodium bicarbonate in the drinking water increases the pH in the crop and creates an unfavourable condition for the organism as it likes an acid environment. Addition of either Nystatin or Amphotericin to the feed has been reported to be effective.

MYCOTOXICOSES

Mycotoxicoses is a disease caused by exposure to mycotoxins, and the most prevalent source of mycotoxin contamination for geese is mouldy feedstuffs. Diagnosis of Mycotoxicoses can be very complex since hundreds of mycotoxins have been identified. However, knowing what the geese are being fed, the source, the symptoms the geese are exhibiting and whether or not other livestock or poultry being fed the same feedstuffs are showing similar symptoms, will allow diagnosis of the problem and identification of the source(s) of the mycotoxin. In tropical countries where aflatoxins are very common, their origin is connected with the development of genus Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus growing mainly on peanuts but also on soybeans, copra, rice bran and corn. According to the literature, alflatoxins may cause slow growth, a drop in egg production and feather loss for all species of waterfowl, although geese are among the less sensitive. The genus Fusarium produces numerous toxins injurious to geese, and these have been found in corn, sorghum, barley, sunflower seed, oats, mixed feed and brewers’ grains. Fusarium mycotoxin production thrives in conditions of high humidity and a temperature of 6-24°C. In temperate climates it is therefore essential that grains be harvested early before the cool-humid conditions of fall arrive as these are conducive to mycotoxin production.

Symptoms. T-2 toxin is one of the most common Fusarium toxins and, depending on the level of contamination, will cause feed refusal, reduced activity, increased water consumption, reduced egg production and reduced hatch (Figure 51 and 52). There are reports that exposure of young geese to T-2 toxin has resulted in the geese dying within two days. Another Fusarium toxin to which geese are very sensitive is zearalenone which can not only result in an immediate drop in fertility but can also permanently damage the testes of the gander.

Treatment. Treatment is to remove the contaminated feedstuff immediately and provide the geese with fresh, uncontaminated feed. The best prevention is to ensure that all purchased feedstuffs are mycotoxin-free.

NECROTIC ENTERITIS

Necrotic enteritis is caused by Clostridium perfringens and has been reported to occur in geese although the incidence of the disease does not appear to be high. Clostridium perfringens can be found in soil, faeces, dust, litter and contaminated feed.

Symptoms. The clinical signs of Necrotic enteritis are severe depression, decreased appetite, reluctance to move, diarrhoea and ruffled feathers. Sick birds may die quickly due to enterotoxemia and necrosis of the small intestine.

Treatment. Prevention is the rule. Many birds have natural populations of Clostridium perfringens in their caeca, but rarely in the small intestine. Stress or any irritant to the digestive tract can provide the stimulus for this genus to appear and multiply in the small intestine and should be avoided. If the disease appears, a number of antibiotics have been found to be effective which include lincomycin, bacitracin, oxytetracycline, penicillin, tylosin, virginiamycin, avoparcin and nitrovin.

NEMATODES

It has been said that nematodes, or roundworms as they are commonly called, constitute the most important group of helminth parasites of poultry. With geese, Ascaridia are generally not a problem but various species of Capillaria and Heterakis can cause problems. The most common nematode in geese is Amidostomum anseris.

Symptoms. The usual symptom of worm infection in geese is lethargy. The presence of eggs or worms in either the faeces or in any organ, as revealed upon autopsy, will confirm a worm infection. Amidostomum anseris infects the horny lining of the gizzard and sometimes the proventriculus. It causes dark discoloration of the gizzard and a sloughing off of the lining.

Treatment. The first principle in controlling nematode infections is to practice good management. For geese on range, it is essential to rotate pastures 3-4 times a year and to change the pastures every year so as to break the cycle of nematode re-infection. For geese in confinement, the litter should be changed regularly and the building washed and disinfected with insecticide after each flock of geese. It is important not to mix young and old geese together, nor to follow old geese with young geese who are much more susceptible to nematode infections.

A number of anthelmintic drugs are available to treat nematode infections. For the control of Amidostomum anseris in geese cambendazole, pyrantel, mebendazole and fenbendazole have each been shown to be effective. Hygromycin B and coumaphos, when included in the feed, are both effective against Ascaridia, Capillaria and Heterakis. Phenothiazin is effective against Heterakis and Thiabendazole is effective against Syngamus.

The following nematodes have been isolated from the small intestine of the goose: Echinura uncinata, Epomidiostomum uncinatum, Ascaridia galli, Capillaria anatis, Capillaria bursata, Capillaria annulata, Capillaria anseris, Capillaria caundinflata, Capillaria obsignata, Heterakis dispar, Heterakis gallinarum, Strongyloides avium and Trichostronglus tenuis. The nematode Syngamus trachea has been isolated from the respiratory tract of the goose.

NEPHRITIC HEMORRHAGIC ENTERITIS

Nephritic hemorrhagic enteritis is a disease that is currently quite prevalent in the south western region of France and is often referred to simply as NEHO. It can infect geese from 4-20 weeks of age and causes mortality rates from 30-100 percent. The causes of this disease are not well understood but it seems to be primarily poor management. An excess of protein in the feed or any sudden change in the diet of the birds can also bring it on, as can poor quality drinking water and parasite infections.

Symptoms. When suffering from this disease, geese are often unsteady on their feet, have difficulty getting up and have erratic movements. These symptoms are accompanied by diarrhoea and trembling and death usually follows shortly afterwards. The characteristic lesions are urates and haemorrhaging in the kidneys, an exaggerated sub-cutaneous swelling and the presence of intestinal parasites.

Treatment. The first measures to take are good management prevention practices such as controlling parasites and ensuring that the geese have a balanced ration. For outbreaks of the disease, good results can be obtained by injecting homologous serum. Also available are renal tonics and liver detoxicants, both of which can help relieve the symptoms. Due to a lack of knowledge of the disease, no vaccine has yet been developed.

NEWCASTLE DISEASE

The Newcastle Disease Virus is of the genus Paramyxoviruses which has been isolated from geese. Clinical signs are the exception rather than the rule, but when present, consist of greenish diarrhoea and, occasionally, disorders of the central nervous system. In many cases, geese may be infected without showing any clinical symptoms, yet they can be carriers for a prolonged period. Usually geese are not vaccinated since Newcastle disease is not generally a problem for them.

PARATYPHOID

Paratyphoid, or salmonellosis, is an important disease in geese with young birds, generally under six weeks of age, being the most susceptible. In addition, the concern regarding salmonella infection in humans and the demand for salmonella-free poultry products has increased the awareness of this disease and resulted in various monitoring programmes being undertaken in many countries. Over 2 000 types of salmonella organisms have been isolated from various species of fowl worldwide. Generally, the salmonella serotypes isolated from poultry are more characteristic of the region than the species of poultry. Paratyphoid is easily spread through contact with either infected birds, their faeces or through infected equipment, particularly that used for hatching and brooding. It now appears that salmonella is spread by salmonella entering the egg both in vivo before it is laid and by penetrating the egg after it is laid. In both cases it can multiply in the egg. For this reason, the importance of collecting eggs frequently before they get dirty, and cleaning and fumigating them as soon as possible, cannot be over emphasised.

Symptoms. Geese with Paratyphoid will usually be less than six weeks of age, tend to stand in one position, with their heads lowered, eyes closed, wings dropping and feathers ruffled. Sick birds will also exhibit marked anorexia, increased water consumption, watery diarrhoea, pasty vent and a tendency to huddle close to the heat.

Treatment. The first step in the control of Paratyphoid is to remove all the possible sources of salmonella. This requires excellent management and sanitation of the breeders, the hatching process and the rearing of the goslings. The cleanliness of the hatching eggs is perhaps the most important single aspect in the control of Paratyphoid, especially the fumigation of eggs immediately after laying. Rodent control is also very important.

A number of sulphonamides, antibiotics and nitrofurans have been recommended in the treatment of paratyphoid. In addition, furazolidone and injectable gentamicin and spectinomycin can be used. The final diagnosis of Paratyphoid depends on isolation and identification of the causative organism. This will help determine which drugs are best suited to treat a particular outbreak.

RIEMERELLA ANATIPESTIFER INFECTION

Riemerella anatipestifer infection is a contagious disease affecting domestic geese, ducks and various other birds which means that infections in geese can originate from other species.

Symptoms. The common symptoms are ocular and nasal discharges, mild coughing and sneezing, greenish diarrhoea, uncoordinated movement, tremor of the neck and head and coma. Geese that recover from the disease are resistant to subsequent infection.

Treatment. The sulphonamides and antibiotics as listed under Fowl Cholera for the control of Pasteurella multocida are usually effective against Riemerella anatipestifer. Vaccines have been developed but they have been used primarily with ducks although they can be expected to prevent the disease in geese as well.

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PSEUDOTUBERCULOSIS

Pseudotuberculosis caused by Yersinia pseudotuberculosis has been reported in a large number of avian species, including geese. It is not, however, a common disease in geese.

Symptoms. The disease is characterised by an acute septicaemia and infected birds have difficulty breathing and are weak, with dull and ruffled feathers and diarrhoea. A definite diagnosis requires isolation and identification of the causative agent.

Treatment. Due to the low incidence of the disease, there is very little information available but chloramphenicol, streptomycin and tetracycline have been effectively used in some species.

RETICULOENDOTHELIOSIS

Reticuloendotheliosis refers to a group of syndromes caused by the retroviruses of the REV group. The disease occurs in a wide variety of domestic poultry but is rare in geese. It is sometime called the Runting Disease because it is characterised by poor growth and abnormal feathering. In geese, viruses have been isolated from tumours of the spleen, liver, pancreas and intestines. No vaccine has been developed for this disease because the incidence and economic importance of the disease is very low.

SPIROCHETOSIS

Spirochetosis in avian species is caused by Borrelia anserina and is tick-borne. Spirochetosis was first described in 1891 as a severe septicaemic disease of geese in Russia but it is now found worldwide, especially in the tropical and subtropical areas where fowl ticks (genus Argas) are common. However, even in these areas the incidence of the disease is low.

Symptoms. Morbidity and mortality are highly variable, ranging from 1-2 percent up to 100 percent. Lowest rates occur when the birds have previously been exposed to Borrelia anserina and have developed immunity. Larval ticks or puncture haemorrhages from tick bites on the birds, or ticks in the birds’ environment are indicative of the disease.

Treatment. In areas where Spirochetosis is prevalent, vaccination is the control method of choice. Female geese that have acquired immunity, either through natural exposure or through vaccination, are capable of passing on passive immunity to their offspring which will protect them for 5-6 weeks post hatching.

When an outbreak occurs, the treatment of choice is usually antibiotics. Borrelia anserina is sensitive to most antibiotics including penicillin, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, streptomycin, tylosin and tetracyclines.

STAPHYLOCOCCOSIS

All avian species are susceptible to staphylococcal infections though geese do not appear to be affected to any great degree. If and when they are infected, it is generally as a secondary infection but even this is rare in geese. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common infection in birds. One of the major concerns is that staphylococcus infections can be transmitted from birds to humans. This has been observed among both slaughterhouse workers and people performing autopsies.

Symptoms. The most frequent sites of infection in poultry are bones, tendon sheaths and leg joints but infections may occur elsewhere.

Treatment. Staphylococcus infections can be treated with antibiotics. Penicillin, streptomycin, tetracycline, erythromycin, novobiocin, sulphonamides, linomycin and spectinomycin have been used successfully.

STREPTOCOCCOSIS

There are a number of species of streptococcus that infect birds. However, to date, streptococcus infections in geese are very rare although Streptococcus mutans, a common bacterium of the human oral cavity, has been identified as a cause of septicaemia and mortality in geese.

Symptoms. In its acute form, the clinical signs of Streptococcosis are related to septicaemia, depression, lethargy, diarrhoea and head tremors, although often the birds are just found dead. In the chronic form, depression, loss of weight, lameness and head tremors may be observed.

Treatment. Prevention and control require reducing stress and following proper sanitation practices. Treatment includes the use of either antibiotics such as penicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline or nitrofurans.

TAPEWORMS

Over 1 400 species of cestodes or tapeworms have been noted in wild and domestic birds and for many an intermediate host has been identified. Control of the intermediate host has proven to be the best way of controlling the tapeworm. Even though geese have been reported infected with numerous species of tapeworms introduced by wild waterfowl, tapeworms are generally not a problem in goose production. This is particularly so if geese are denied access to natural waterways where they can ingest an intermediate host (most of the time a fresh water crustacean). At least four tapeworms have, however, been isolated from the intestinal lumen of geese: Fimbriara fasciolaris, Hymenolepis megalops, Hymenolepis compressa, Hymenolepis lanceolata.

Symptoms. Normally geese infested with tapeworms will not perform well, but isolation and identification of the worm is required for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment. As with many other poultry species, it is not easy for geese to contract a tapeworm infection because of the trend towards confinement poultry production systems. This trend has resulted in a marked decline in tapeworm infections simply because poultry species are now more separated from the intermediate host. For this reason the first step to control tapeworm infestations in geese is to separate the geese from the intermediate host by confining them or by developing an effective pasture rotation system. The geese must also be isolated from natural waterways. Using only drugs to expel the worm will have a very short-term effect if the intermediate host is not controlled. Drugs that have been effective in controlling tapeworms in chickens are butynorate, either on its own or in conjunction with piperazine and phenothiazine under the trade name Wormal. Experimentally, hexachlorophene and niclosamine have also been shown to be effective.

TRICHOMONIASIS

This is a protozoan disease that infects mostly mature geese in breeder flocks. The causative agent in geese is Trichomonas anseris while for other classes of poultry it is Trichomonas gallinae. These organisms are transmitted from bird to bird through the water and, to a lesser degree, through the feed.

Symptoms. The infection in geese is mainly in the lower digestive tract and the first symptoms are reduced reproductive performance and weight loss. The droppings can be monitored for the protozoan although an autopsy (with heavy infections mortality can be high) will generally not yield the protozoa as they disappear quickly.

Treatment. If the disease has not spread throughout the flock, any sick birds that can be identified should be isolated. Nitrofurazon, metronidazole and dimetridazole are effective in treating the disease.

VENEREAL DISEASES

Bacteria, especially Neisseria, Mycoplasma, and Candida albicans have been associated with a venereal disease in ganders although it now seems that Mycoplasma are the primary infective agents.

Symptoms. Initially, the base of the phallus becomes swollen and inflamed with the infection extending to the cloaca. Later, there is necrosis, ulceration and eventually considerable scarring, making reproduction impossible. The disease spreads throughout the flock very rapidly.

Treatment. The onset of the disease has, in some cases, been associated with a high density of ganders that has led to fighting, resulting in the phallus of some ganders being injured and becoming infected. The infection then spreads through the flock via the females. When infected, the females exhibit symptoms such as airsaculitis, peritonitis, and salpingitis. The first control measure to take is good management of the breeder flock. Because of the principle involvement of Mycoplasma, some veterinarians view the disease as a component of Mycoplasma infections rather than as a separate disease. Treatment is therefore with antibiotics effective against mycoplasma such as tylosin, tetracycline, chlortetracycline, linomycin, oxytetracycline, spectinomycin, spinomycin and tiamulin. Sensitivity tests should be conducted to select the appropriate antibiotic.

GOOSE DISEASES – CONCLUSIONS

To conclude this chapter, we can say that for a sustainable production of geese, it is essential to ensure sanitary conditions for the flock. Some diseases, such as Derzy’s disease, can cause severe losses of up to 100 percent of the geese but generally many of the diseases are not as serious a problem for geese as they are for other poultry species. Every effort must still be made, however, to keep the geese healthy and good flock management will greatly contribute to the prevention of most diseases.

Listed below are the summarized guidelines with regard to disease management for both growing and breeding geese:

GROWING GEESE

General

Put goslings in a clean, disinfected poultry house and ensure that the temperature is correct and that the air circulation is adequate.
Provide adequate fresh food and water.
Practice pasture rotation and treat with 5-6 g of ferric sulphate per square metre.
Respect the stocking density recommended for the type of housing being used.
Observe the behaviour and general health of the flock regularly.

Medical prophylactics

Derzy’s disease: goslings from protected breeders should be vaccinated before they are four weeks of age. Goslings from unprotected flocks should be injected with a serum twice: at one and 18 days of age and then vaccinated.

Cholera: three vaccinations are required at six, ten and 20 weeks of age.

Parasites: birds on deep litter and pasture should be treated for worms every six weeks. It is also recommended to check the faeces every month for worms and/or oocysts.

When available, and depending on the composition of the diet being fed, a vitamin and mineral supplement is recommended every two weeks up to ten weeks of age and at any time that the birds are stressed.

BREEDING GEESE

It is necessary to perform all the medical treatments before the first egg is laid. These include treatments for Parasites (worms, coccidioses, tricomoniasis), Mycoplasma, Salmonella, and further vaccination for Cholera and Derzy’s disease. During the lay period, it is important to monitor egg production, percent fertility and percent hatch on a weekly basis. Any decrease in these or any other parameters could mean the onset of a disease even if the birds still appear healthy. To maintain the reproductive performance of the flock, any disease must be identified and treated immediately.

What You Need to Properly Care for Geese

About 100 m²of good, short grass per goose.
The grass must be short at first (approximately 4 inches). If you have long grass, you should cut it and remove the cuttings. Because they don’t eat most weeds, you will need to periodically mow the grass. Try to reduce the weeds and increase the grass by using selective weed killers, but be careful as this may also kill the dandelions, clovers, wild mints, violets, and daisies.
They need a nice, big bucket of clean water every day. They have to be able to immerse their heads in it. Don’t give them anything large enough for them to get into, as they will soil it. Of course, if you don’t mind cleaning out paddling pools, or you have a lake or large pond, then they are ideal. Geese might pollute a small, natural pond, though, so take care when giving them access to water.
They need a fox-proof place to sleep that is dry but not droughty. It should be about 1 m²per goose. You must be able to clean it out comfortably.
They need clean straw at night for bedding.
If you need to contain them, sheep fencing that is about 4 ft. high is fine. They can fly over if they want to but don’t generally bother.

Caring for Goslings

Geese don’t make good mothers, so it’s best to give two eggs to a broody hen or use an incubator.
The goslings need to be kept in a rat-free environment. Because I keep mine in a barn, we made a box that was 75 cm x 75 cm x 60 cm high, with a base and a removable wire mesh lid. (This box was designed as a car box for our dog but proved more useful for chicks and goslings). You should be able to keep four to five goslings in this enclosure for three to four weeks.
Alternatively, a ready-made wire car box designed for a large dog would be ideal if it was placed in a draught-free place or wrapped around to protect from draughts. If you don’t have one, perhaps you could borrow one.
Don’t use wood shavings, straw, or sawdust as bedding, and don’t give them anything slippery to stand on, such as newspaper. Slippery surfaces can lead to damaged leg development. Ideally, lay down a thick base of newspaper and cover that with an old towel. When this is soiled, take it out and shake it, and then hang it up to dry and replace it with another one. Other breeders suggest wire netting. If you choose to use this, make sure it is free from any wire that could injure the goslings. Again, when it is soiled, take it out and brush off the droppings.

GLOSSARY

Bean/Horn : Growth at the tip of bill in ducks.

Belching : Sound produced by drake.

Bill : Beak of duck and geese.

Debilling : Removal of part of bill (similar to beaktrimming).

Drake feather : Tail feather curved outwards in a drake.

Drake : Male of a duck.

Droopiness : To bend or hang downward.

Duck : Actually means female duck; but ordinarily used to mean both sexes of ducks.

Gander : Male goose.

Geese : Actually means female goose; but ordinarily used to mean both sexes of geese.

Honking : Sound produced by geese (both male and female).