The Sebastopol has long, curly, spiralled feathers on the back, wings, tail and underbody, while the head and upper neck have smooth, normal plumage. The breast may be curly (frizzle) or smooth. These loose, fluffy feathers prevent the bird from flying well and give it a distinctive, unkempt appearance.132
Sebastopol geese are quiet, shy and gentle, making them wonderful pets. They are less aggressive than many other goose breeds and do not like to wander far. They are social and can be used as surrogate parents for goslings of other breeds.24
Daily activity how busy a day looks
They need access to clean water for swimming and bathing every day. They are good swimmers despite their curly feathers not being fully waterproof. They enjoy foraging on grass and aquatic plants.25
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Provide plenty of clean water for bathing to keep their white feathers clean. In wet, cold or windy weather, give extra shelter because their loose feathers do not insulate or shed water as well as normal feathers. Keep them dry and out of draughts during winter.25
Home where they are happiest
A secure, predator-proof enclosure with a pond or large water tub for swimming. They need a dry, sheltered house or barn for night-time and protection from wet, cold weather. They are flightless so low fencing is sufficient, but they still need space to roam and graze.25
Food basics what goes in the bowl
They are excellent foragers and eat grass, aquatic plants, seeds, corn and beans. Supplement with a balanced poultry feed, especially if confined. Provide fresh, clean water at all times. In winter, offer carbohydrate-rich foods to help them keep warm.4
Company who they like around
Sebastopol geese are social and do best in pairs or small flocks. They are friendly with humans and make gentle pets. They are not aggressive and can be kept with other calm poultry. They are broody and good mothers, and can act as adoptive parents for goslings.24
The story where it all began
The Sebastopol goose was developed in southeastern Europe, around the Black Sea and the Danube River. It was first exhibited in England in 1860 after being imported from the Crimean port of Sevastopol. The breed was originally kept for its long, curly feathers, which were used to stuff pillows and quilts. It is descended from the wild Greylag goose.126
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Sebastopol Goose?
Sebastopol geese are excellent foragers and can graze on grass and aquatic plants throughout the day. Furry Diary's starting plan is to offer fresh food and water every day, supplementing with a balanced poultry feed as needed. Always provide clean water at all times.4Furry Diary plan
What does a Sebastopol Goose eat, and what should it never eat?
They enjoy grass, aquatic plants, seeds, corn, beans, and a balanced poultry feed. Never give them avocado, which is especially dangerous for birds, or other toxic foods like chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol.47
How much space does a Sebastopol Goose need?
They need a secure, predator-proof enclosure with room to roam and graze. Since they are flightless, low fencing is enough, but they still appreciate space to move. A pond or large water tub for swimming is also important for their daily bathing.25
What shelter or housing does a Sebastopol Goose need?
Provide a dry, sheltered house or barn for night-time and protection from wet, cold weather. Their curly feathers are not fully waterproof, so extra shelter is needed in wet, cold, or windy conditions. Keep them dry and out of draughts during winter.25
How often should I clean a Sebastopol Goose's home?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests spot cleaning the coop daily and doing a full clean every 30 days. Also check for mites every 14 days to keep their home healthy. Furry Diary plan
Can a Sebastopol Goose live with others?
Yes, they are social and do best in pairs or small flocks. They are friendly with humans and can be kept with other calm poultry. They are not aggressive and can even act as adoptive parents for goslings.24
How long does a Sebastopol Goose live?
They typically live between 15 and 25 years, so they can be a long-term companion.4
Can I handle a Sebastopol Goose?
Yes, they are quiet, shy, and gentle, making them wonderful pets. They are less aggressive than many goose breeds and are friendly with humans, so handling is possible with gentle care.24
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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livestockconservancy.org: sebastopol gooselivestockconservancy.orgused for origin, weight kg, coat or body, colours, best traits, temperament, activity needs, grooming or care, habitat needs, social needs, history, fun fact
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