Geese are mostly migratory birds that have become a common sight in many parts of the world, and most people know at least something about these birds.
But how long do geese actually live? What is the average lifespan of a goose?
Geese can live anywhere from 10 to 30 years. The main factors that affect how long a goose will live are its diet, habitat, and breed.
Geese that have access to a healthy diet of grasses and other vegetation, live in a safe and comfortable habitat, and are of a healthy breed will generally have a longer lifespan than those that do not have these things.
Geese that are poorly cared for, live in unsafe or unhealthy conditions, or are of a less hardy breed will generally not live as long.
There are always exceptions to every rule, but in general, these are the three main factors that affect how long a goose will live.
How Long Do Domestic Geese Live?
What many keepers don’t expect is that, just like other waterfowl and other birds, many species of geese live long lives. So, how long can a goose live in captivity?
Geese can live more than 20 years if they are cared for properly.
This includes having a spacious pen or yard to roam in, a clean and comfortable place to sleep, good living conditions and plenty of fresh water and food.
In ideal circumstances, some geese have been known to live up to 30 years.
Here are some of the more popular breeds of domestic geese and their respective lifespan:
- Greylag Goose – 30 years in captivity, 20 years in the wild
- Hybrid Goose – Lifespan depends on its cross-breeding
People raise domestic geese for a variety of reasons. Some people raise them for egg production, while others raise them for meat production. Some people even keep different geese species as pets.
Geese are interesting animals and make great companions.
They are also quite efficient at converting feed into eggs or meat, which makes them a good choice for those looking to produce food.
Geese Need a Good Diet
Geese prefer to free-range but they should have a well-balanced diet of fresh grass, grains, leafy vegetables, and small insects helps geese live longer.
The grass is a great source of fiber which helps keep their digestive system working properly. Grains such as corn and wheat are a good source of protein and other nutrients like niacin which geese need.
Leafy vegetables such as lettuce and kale are high in vitamins and minerals. Small insects such as mealworms are a good source of protein and other nutrients.
Geese Need Clean Water
Geese also need access to clean water is because they need it to drink.
Geese also use water to keep their feathers clean and their bills free of debris. If they don’t have access to water, they can become very dirty and their health can be compromised.
Geese also use water for mating purposes. Access to clean water is essential for the health and wellbeing of geese.
Geese Need Plenty of Space
Geese are large birds that need plenty of living space and shelter against the weather elements in order to live longer.
If they are cramped into a small area or not protected from the wind, rain, and harsh winters, they will not be able to survive for very long.
Providing a large open area where they can roam and a shelter to protect them from the bad weather as well as offering predator protection will help to keep them healthy and happy.
Do Domesticated Geese Live Longer Than Wild Geese?
The lifespan of wild and domestic geese varies due to many factors. However, it is generally believed that domestic geese do indeed have a longer life expectancy than most wild geese.
A wild goose has a typical lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
This is most likely due to the fact that domesticated geese are typically well-cared for and have access to food and water, whereas wild geese must fend for themselves.
Additionally, a domestic goose is not exposed to the same dangers as wild geese, such as being hunted as prey animals by natural predators and harsh weather conditions.
Therefore, it is safe to say that domesticated geese do live longer than wild geese.
How Long Do Barnacle Goose Species Live?
Barnacle geese can live up to 24 years.
How Long Do African Geese Live?
An African goose can live up to between 10 and 15 years.
How Long Do Canada Geese Live?
Canadian geese are one of the longest-living species of waterfowl. Their long lifespan is due in part to their good eating habits. The average life expectancy of a Canada goose is 10 to 24 years.
How Long Do Snow Geese Live?
In the wild, it is believed that a snow goose can live up to 15 years. However, this is an approximation because the exact lifespan of snow geese is still relatively unknown.
How Long Do Chinese Geese Live?
A Chinese goose can live between 15 to 20 years.
How Long Do Toulouse Geese Live?
Toulouse geese can live between up to 22 years but their average life expectancy is 10 years. So if you are thinking of getting a Toulouse goose as a pet, be prepared for a long-term commitment.
How Long Do Swan Geese or White Geese Live?
A swan goose or white goose can live between 10 to 20 years.
What Is the Oldest Goose on Record?
The recognition of oldest goose in captivity was a gander named George that died at the age of 49 years and 8 months on December 16, 1976. George was owned by Florence Hull of Thornton, Lancashire, UK. George was hatched in April 1927.
The Take-Away on How Long Do Geese Live
So, how long do geese live? The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the bird’s diet, habitat, and breed.
Generally speaking, however, most geese can live anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Domestic geese can potentially live a long life if treated properly.
There is no significant difference in the survival rates between male and female geese. There are a lot of anecdotal reports of geese living up to 40 years but most of these claims are unverified.
By understanding what affects a goose’s lifespan and taking these factors into account when caring for your flock, you can help your adult geese live long and healthy lives.
FAQs on Geese and their Life Cycle
What Family Do Geese Belong To?
Geese are large waterfowl belonging to the family Anatidae. This family also includes ducks and swans. These large birds include a group of gray, white, and black geese.
How Do Most Geese Die?
Like most wild animals, most geese die while they’re young. Baby geese or goslings only have a 50% survival rate. They are much easier to prey on than an adult goose.
Are Geese Monogamous Birds?
No matter the species of goose, geese mate for life. Once the female and male geese reach adulthood and reach sexual maturity at around one to two years of age.
