Pomeranian goose

Although only an officially recognized breed since 1912,[1] this fowl was developed by Northern German farmers of Pomerania as early as 1500.

[6] Pomeranian Geese average 16 pounds in weight and lay about 70 eggs a season[4] although some varieties may produce less.

[6] They have flattened heads, stout necks, prominent breasts, rounded bodies and what has been described as an "arrogant" bearing.

A Pomeranian goose should have blue eyes, a pinkish red bill, and reddish orange legs and feet.

[8] According to an expert: This breed descended from the Eastern Graylag, which is why true Pomeranians have pinkish red beak, legs and feet.

More than thirty years ago I encountered representatives of the breed in Switzerland, the Low Countries and Britain, as well as its more typical range.

Despite what Soames and other writers have said, when I was in Germany in the early 1970's I had the distinct impression it was the dominant working goose everywhere...this is a unique and ancient breed worthy of preservation.