Toulouse Goslings

Valley Hatchery is pleased to offer the Toulouse Goslings, a breed with a distinguished history and versatile utility. The Toulouse breed originated in Haute Garonne, France, particularly in the region where Toulouse is the central city. This breed made its way to England in the 1840s and later to America in the early 1850s, quickly gaining popularity. Known for their ability to fatten up efficiently, Toulouse geese are an excellent choice for those seeking a hearty roasted goose. While their darker pin feathers may not yield as attractive a carcass as a white goose, these darker feathers have a practical advantage. The adult birds maintain a neater and cleaner appearance, especially beneficial in muddy conditions or later in the season. In France, specially-bred strains of Toulouse are still utilized for producing goose foie gras, a delicacy prized by chefs worldwide for its smooth texture and exquisite taste. Toulouse geese are often the first breed that comes to mind when thinking of geese. They are a fairly common breed, known for their robustness and durability. They lay a substantial number of fertile eggs and are adept at hatching and raising their young, making them one of the best breeds for this purpose. These geese are a long-time favorite, especially suited for small farms and homesteads. Descending from the Western Greylag in southern France, Toulouse geese display feathers in various shades of gray, with their chest and abdomen boasting a creamy white color. This sturdy, dual-purpose breed excels in both hatching and raising goslings, laying around 25-30 eggs per year. The Toulouse is an ideal choice for a range of purposes, including dual-purpose farm work and weeding. They are friendly and calm, making them great pets. These geese weigh between 14-16 pounds and are known for their hardiness in all climates. Classified as a ‘Heavy’ breed by the American Poultry Association (APA), their annual egg production is impressive, and they are recognized for their good mothering abilities. The Toulouse lay white eggs and their origin from France adds to their appeal, bringing a touch of European heritage to your farm or homestead.