52 DOMESTIC WATER FOWL GEESE. 



period. The Goose generally lays from eight to twelve 

 eggs. It may be known when Geese are about to lay, 

 from straw being frequently picked up and carried 

 about by them. The length of time of sitting is about 

 thirty days. When Geese are inclined to sit, they 

 generally show it, by remaining on their nest after 

 laying a considerable time. In this case, a proper quan- 

 tity of eggs, as from ten to twelve, should be placed, 

 in the nests, and something put before them, so as to 

 prevent the Geese from being much seen. They should 

 also have plenty of food, sand, and water, near them, 

 in order that they may not have to remain long off the 

 nests, and in that way let the eggs be too much cooled. 

 The Ganders should be left with them as guards. When 

 the weather is warm, they generally hatch rather sooner 

 than when it is cold. After the Goslings are hatched, 

 the best method is to let them remain with the Goose, 

 especially where they are strong, in some warm sunny 

 place, that is well secured against the entrance of rats, 

 and all other sorts of vermin, and which is properly 

 supplied with water ; being well fed with the crumbs 

 of bread, grits, wheat, and some chopped clivers. They 

 should remain in this confinement until they are grown 

 strong, and capable of following the Goose with ease ; 

 they may then be put into a small field, or paddock, 

 where the grass is short, till they are fit to be turned 

 out with the Geese. When they are weakly, it is cus- 

 tomary to feed them in the house, with bread, soaked in 



