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Sebastopol Goose

The Sebastopol is the ornamental goose with curly, ribbon-like feathers that cannot fly. Pure white plumage cascades from the body like ringlets - the bird breed equivalent of show poodle. Calm, tame, mostly ornamental.

About this breed

Quick facts: Sebastopol Goose

OriginSevastopol, Crimea - 1800s
APA recognized1938
Conservation statusThreatened
Also calledSevastopol, Danubian, Curly Goose
Adult weightGanders 12-14 lb, Hens 10-12 lb
Size classMedium
Eggs per year~30
Egg colorWhite
Egg sizeJumbo
BroodinessHigh
Cold hardinessGood
Heat toleranceFair
Noise levelAverage (less honky than other geese)
Flight tendencyCannot fly (curled flight feathers)
Beginner friendlyYes

History & origin

Originated near Sevastopol on the Crimean peninsula on the Black Sea. The curly-feather mutation was discovered and selectively bred in the 1800s. Reached Western Europe via shipping routes in the 1860s and the US shortly after. APA-recognized 1938 (White only). Threatened status - global population estimated under 1,000 breeding birds. The feather curl is genetic and breeds true - paired with smooth-feathered geese produces 50/50 curly/smooth offspring.

Personality & temperament

calmdocilecuriousfriendly with handler

Best for: ornamental, show, pond display, pet goose

Eggs & laying

Lay in early spring; hatch in 28-30 days.

Husbandry & care

Indoor coop space8 sq ft per bird
Run space30 sq ft per bird

Space: Need a water source (kiddie pool min, pond ideal). Feathers stay cleaner with daily swimming.

Feeding: Waterfowl pellets 16% protein, free pasture access (eat 60-70% grass).

Health: Curly feathers don't shed water well - shelter from heavy rain.

Climate: Zones 4-9. Wing feathers offer poor flight but reasonable insulation.

Buying tips

  • Look for full body curls - leg/wing curls only is a sign of poor genetics.
  • Goslings hatch with normal-looking down; the curl develops at 6-8 weeks.
  • True Sebastopols cannot fly even when fully feathered.
  • Premium pair pricing: $400-800 (vs $80-150 for Embden).

Did you know?

  • One of only a few breeds where the feather structure is the genetic identifier.
  • Cannot raise wings high enough to fly - even short hops are difficult.
  • Featured at Buckingham Palace ornamental ponds.
  • Goslings look identical to Embden until 6-8 weeks when curls appear.

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