Pilgrim Goslings

Valley Hatchery is proud to offer Pilgrim Ducklings, a unique and charming breed that stands out for its distinctive characteristics and rich history. Originating in the United States, the Pilgrim Goose is a relatively recent breed, named not for its historical journey with early American settlers, but rather as a tribute to a breeder’s family pilgrimage to Missouri during the Great Depression. This breed holds the distinction of being the only auto-sexing goose variety, where males and females can be easily distinguished right from hatch. The physical characteristics of Pilgrim Ducklings are fascinating. The male ducklings are hatched with yellow and light gray down, sporting lighter colored bills, similar to day-old Embden or Sebastopol geese. In contrast, the female ducklings have a deeper gray/green down with darker bills, resembling young Toulouse geese. As adults, this distinction remains clear: males are predominantly white with some gray on their rump or wings, while females are gray in color, similar to a Toulouse, often with white on their heads. In terms of temperament, Pilgrim Geese are known for their calm nature and are renowned as excellent parents, although the fertility of their eggs can be relatively low. They are versatile in their utility, being well-suited for weeding, and are friendly and calm, making them great backyard pets. The males typically weigh between 13-15 pounds and exhibit tan and white adult plumage, with bluish-gray eyes. The females, on the other hand, are light gray with some white under their belly, laced throughout their plumage, and have hazel brown eyes. These geese are hardy in all climates and are classified as a ‘Medium’ breed by the American Poultry Association (APA). They have a good annual egg production, laying about 20-25 white eggs, and their mothering abilities are commendable. The Pilgrim Goose is currently listed as ‘Threatened’ by the Livestock Conservancy. Valley Hatchery’s Pilgrim Ducklings offer a blend of historical significance, distinctive physical traits, and a gentle, friendly nature, making them a delightful addition to any farm or backyard setting. Their origin in the USA adds to their appeal, providing a touch of American heritage to this unique and versatile breed.