252 
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 lot the eggs bo 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 arc 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 aro 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 
