Lionhead geese are the only large-scale goose species native to China and are considered a nationally protected and valuable local breed. These geese have a distinct egg-laying season, which typically runs from September of one year to April of the following year. They exhibit strong nesting behavior and can be divided into three distinct egg-laying periods within this season. The first period is from September to mid-November, the second from mid-November to mid-December, and the third from late January until the end of the laying season. This article presents a preliminary analysis of the egg production records of three Lionhead geese over the 2003–2004 season, focusing on their performance across these three laying periods.
Overall, all three geese began their laying season in September and concluded in April of the next year. During this time, the total number of goslings born was 54, 67, and 88 respectively, while the total eggs laid were 1,660, 2,069, and 2,819. The average number of eggs per hen was 30.7, 30.9, and 32.0, with an overall average of 31.3. A t-test showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the groups, indicating that the egg production among the three geese was relatively consistent throughout the season.
During the three laying periods, the first period saw the geese producing 393, 418, and 644 eggs, averaging 7.28, 6.24, and 7.32 eggs per week. The second period had 563, 656, and 947 eggs, averaging 10.43, 9.79, and 10.75. The third period recorded 731, 995, and 1,228 eggs, averaging 13.01, 14.85, and 13.95. Overall, the third period accounted for the largest share of egg production—about 45.2%—with the first and second periods contributing 22.3% and 32.5%, respectively. The average egg count per period increased gradually, showing a pattern similar to an arithmetic progression.
The average egg-laying rate across the three geese was 12.8%, 12.8%, and 13.3%. The highest rates occurred in December, with all three hens producing more than 20% of their eggs during this time, peaking at nearly 25%. In contrast, the lowest egg-laying rate was recorded in April, averaging just 2.4%. This indicates that the peak egg-laying period occurs during the second laying phase, likely influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and daylight hours.
The high egg production in the third laying period, which made up nearly half of the total, may be due to its longer duration—over 100 days. Egg production remained relatively stable in February and March, with a gradual decline only occurring in April. This decline coincided with increasing daylight after the vernal equinox, suggesting that long days negatively affect egg production in Lionhead geese. Their preference for short-day conditions also plays a key role in their reproductive cycle.
While this study provides some insights into the egg-laying patterns of Lionhead geese, it is important to note that many other factors—such as age, health, diet, and management practices—can significantly influence egg production. Therefore, further research is needed to develop a more comprehensive understanding of this breed's reproductive behavior. Continued observation and data collection will help refine breeding strategies and improve the efficiency of Lionhead goose farming.
Respiratory Infectious
Bioantibody Biotechnology Co., Ltd. , https://www.bioantibodymedical.com