Lionhead geese are the only large-scale goose breed native to China and are classified as a state-protected and valuable local poultry resource. Their egg-laying season typically runs from September of one year to April of the next, and they exhibit strong nesting behavior. This period is divided into three distinct laying phases: the first from September to mid-November, the second from mid-November to early January, 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 during the 2003–2004 season, focusing on their performance across these three laying periods.
Overall, all three groups of geese began laying eggs in September and concluded in April of the following year. The total number of goslings born was 54, 67, and 88, while the total eggs laid were 1,660, 2,069, and 2,819, respectively. The average egg production per hen was 30.7, 30.9, and 32 eggs, with an overall average of 31.3. A t-test revealed no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the groups, indicating that there was little variation in individual egg production among the three hens throughout the season.
During the three laying periods, the first phase saw 393, 418, and 644 eggs laid, averaging 7.28, 6.24, and 7.32 per hen, with an overall average of 6.95. In the second phase, the numbers were 563, 656, and 947 eggs, averaging 10.43, 9.79, and 10.75, for an overall average of 10.32. The third phase produced 731, 995, and 1,228 eggs, averaging 13.01, 14.85, and 13.95, with an overall average of 14.03. The percentage of eggs laid in each period was 23.7%, 20.2%, and 22.9% for the first, 32.2%, 31.7%, and 33.6% for the second, and 44.1%, 48.1%, and 43.5% for the third. Overall, the first period accounted for 22.3% of total eggs, the second for 32.5%, and the third for 45.2%. It is clear that the majority of egg production occurs in the third period, which makes up nearly half of the total.
The average egg-laying rate for the three geese was 12.8%, 12.8%, and 13.3%, respectively. The peak egg-laying rates occurred in December, with all hens exceeding 20% and reaching up to 25% on average. This indicates that the second laying period is the most productive. In contrast, the lowest egg-laying rate occurred in April, averaging just 2.4%.
Several factors influence the egg production of Lionhead geese. First, due to their strong nesting instincts, it's important to monitor and manage the geese during the laying season, especially during peak periods. Providing adequate nutrition during the first laying period helps ensure better performance later. Second, the peak egg-laying period in December appears to be influenced by environmental conditions, such as shorter daylight hours and lower temperatures, which may encourage this breed’s natural short-day behavior. Third, the high egg production in the third period is likely due to its longer duration—over 100 days—and relatively stable egg-laying rates in February and March. However, the drop in April correlates with increasing daylight, suggesting that longer days may negatively impact egg production. Finally, while this study provides some insights, many other factors—such as age, health, feeding, and management—can also affect egg output. More comprehensive research is needed to fully understand the egg-laying patterns of Lionhead geese and improve breeding practices. Continued observation and data collection will help refine our understanding and support more effective and scientific management strategies.
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