Video Series: Fun Facts about Pet Geese - Part one

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Meet Shelby and Sebastian, our two adorable Sebastopol geese! These little fluffballs started their journey under a cozy heat lamp, where they were always warm and safe. But did you know that Sebastopol geese are notorious for their soft, curly feathers? When they’re grown up they look as if they’ve come out of a wind storm!

As goslings, Shelby and Sebastian imprinted on us from day one. This means they saw us as their family, following us everywhere, and even calling out when they needed us! Geese are super smart and will always recognize the first moving object they see after hatching — and for Shelby and Sebastian, that was us!

When they were a little older, we started taking them outside to graze. Sebastopol geese, like most geese, love fresh grass and will nibble on it all day long! They also love to socialize with each other. In fact, geese are incredibly social creatures and often form strong, lifelong bonds with their flockmates.

As they grew, we introduced them to water. Sebastopol geese, like all geese, are natural swimmers. But did you know they have an amazing waterproofing ability? Their feathers have an oily coating that keeps them dry and buoyant, even when they swim for hours! It’s like their own personal raincoat.

One thing that makes Sebastopol geese stand out is their gentle nature. While most geese can be a bit more territorial, Sebastopols are known for being calm and friendly — perfect for families and small farms. Shelby and Sebastian are no exception, always eager to be around people and other birds!

As their feathers grew, we began to notice something amazing: Sebastopol geese go through a unique molting process. Unlike most geese, Sebastopols molt in patches, so they don’t lose all their feathers at once, which helps them stay looking fabulous all year long.

Now fully grown, Shelby and Sebastian moved into the big waterfowl exhibit with the rest of the ducks and geese.

And so, Shelby and Sebastian’s journey continues. They’ve made the transition from adorable goslings to beautiful, mature geese, and we’re excited to share even more of their adventures in the duck yard with you!

Stay tuned for more fun stories and facts about our feathered friends!