The African is a large, distinctive [[Geese|goose]] breed distinguished by a prominent, rounded knob on the top of the head and a dewlap beneath the throat. Despite the name, the breed is believed to have originated from wild swan geese (Anser cygnoides) of Asia and was developed in Europe. African geese are raised for meat, as watch animals, and for exhibition. Their loud, distinctive honk and upright posture make them effective guardians of poultry flocks.
The African goose is a descendant of the Asian swan goose (Anser cygnoides), the same ancestor as the Chinese goose. The breed was likely developed in Europe by crossing Chinese geese with larger European breeds, possibly the Toulouse or Embden. The name "African" was assigned by early American breeders, possibly because the birds were shipped to North America via African ports.
The African goose has been bred in the United States since the 19th century and was admitted to the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1874. The breed is less common than the Embden and Toulouse but has a dedicated following among goose enthusiasts and homesteaders who value its watchdog abilities.
African geese are large, upright birds with a distinctive appearance. The body is deep and rounded, carried in a slightly upright posture. The head is large and carried on a long, thick neck. The most prominent feature is the large, rounded knob on the top of the head, which is more developed in males than females. The knob varies in size and shape. The breed comes in two color varieties: Brown (with a brown body, black bill, and orange legs) and White (white plumage with orange bill and legs). Ganders weigh 18 to 22 pounds (8 to 10 kilograms), and geese weigh 16 to 20 pounds (7 to 9 kilograms).
African geese are hardy and adaptable. They are excellent foragers and can thrive on pasture alone during the growing season. The breed is moderately aggressive and will defend its territory, making it an effective guard animal. Geese lay 20 to 40 large white eggs per year. Their loud call is distinctive and carries for long distances.
African geese are raised for meat, as guardians for poultry flocks, and for exhibition. Their wandering habit and loud call make them effective at alerting to predators and intruders. The breed's upright posture and knobbed head make it one of the most recognizable goose breeds.
The breed's foraging ability reduces feed costs on homesteads with adequate pasture. African geese are active and require more space than the heavier Toulouse. They are hardy in both cold and hot climates but require shade in hot weather to protect the head knob from sunburn.