Lion-headed geese are the largest species of geese in China and among the biggest in the world. These unique birds get their name from the three prominent growths on their forehead and cheeks, which resemble a lion's head. They have a short beak and a fleshy wattle, giving them a distinctive appearance. Despite their large size, they are known for being slow-moving and having limited feeding efficiency. However, they are highly resilient to roughage, consume large amounts of food, and grow rapidly. By the time they are 70 days old, they can weigh between 5 kg and 7 kg, gaining up to 150–200 grams per day during their peak growth phase. Adult males can reach weights of 10–12 kg, while females typically weigh 9–10 kg. The average slaughter rate for adult geese is around 72.3%. Female geese usually start laying eggs at 7–8 months of age, producing 25–35 eggs annually, each weighing approximately 200 grams.
The breeding techniques for Lion-headed geese involve careful feeding and management of goslings. Goslings should begin eating within 24–36 hours after hatching. For the first 1–3 days, feed them 4–5 times during the day and 2 times at night, with portions covering 70–80% of their capacity. From day 5 to day 10, their digestive systems develop, allowing for more frequent feeding—6 times during the day and 2 times at night. A balanced diet includes 20–30% rice or mixed feed and 70–80% green material. Minerals such as bone meal (2–3%), shell powder (0.5%), and salt (0.3%) should also be included. From day 11 to day 20, the focus shifts to green materials, with a fine-to-green ratio of 1:4 to 1:8. Feeding frequency decreases to 4–5 times daily. By day 21–30, their strength and digestion improve, so the fine-to-green ratio increases to 1:9–1:12, and feeding becomes 2–3 times a day with one nighttime feeding.
Gosling management requires attention to temperature, humidity, and hygiene. Insulation is crucial, especially during the first 2–3 weeks. Temperature should be maintained between 27°C–28°C for the first 5 days, gradually decreasing to 15°C–16°C by day 24. Proper ventilation and humidity control (60–65%) are essential to prevent dampness. Goslings can be raised in small groups of 30–50 birds per room, ensuring cleanliness and protection from pests. Any sick or weak goslings should be isolated immediately for treatment.
For adult geese, feeding primarily relies on grazing and green forage, supplemented with concentrated feed. They can graze all day and consume about 1.5–2.5 kg of green material daily, along with 0.8–1 kg of mixed feed. Feeding frequency varies depending on age: 5–6 times per day for 30–50-day-olds, and 3–4 times for 51–80-day-olds. Bone meal or shell powder (3–4%) and salt (0.3%) should be added to their diet.
Adult geese are managed with regular grazing routines. On warm, sunny days, they can graze in the morning and afternoon, with feeding sessions at midday and late afternoon. Before and after grazing, it’s important to count the flock and check for signs of illness. If any geese appear weak or unwell, they should be treated promptly. When moving geese to pasture, group sizes of 60–100 birds are ideal, and movement should be slow and calm. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or rain. Before returning to the coop, allow them to wash and rest outside before entering the house. Maintaining clean feeding areas and dry housing is essential for their health and well-being.
Frozen Squid Flower Cut,Frozen Squid Flower,Squid Carving Flower,Pineapple Cut Squid Flower
Zhoushan Haiwang Seafood Co., Ltd. , https://www.haiwangseafoods.com