Goose eggs typically take between 28 and 35 days to hatch, with some variation depending on the breed and conditions. Lighter breeds tend to hatch closer to 28-30 days, while larger breeds may take up to 35 days
. The incubation period usually starts when the goose begins sitting on the eggs full-time or when eggs are placed in an incubator
. After the gosling begins to "pip" (break through the shell), hatching can still take up to 36 hours or more, which is longer than for many other poultry species
. During incubation, maintaining proper temperature (around 99.5°F for forced- air incubators) and humidity (starting around 55% and increasing to about 75% during hatching) is important for a successful hatch
. In natural settings, incubation lasts about 28 days, with both parents defending the nest during this time
. Artificial incubation requires careful management of temperature, humidity, and egg turning to mimic natural conditions
. In summary:
- Incubation period: 28 to 35 days (breed-dependent)
- Time after pipping to hatch: up to 36 hours
- Temperature: ~99.5°F (forced-air incubator)
- Humidity: ~55% during incubation, ~75% during hatching
- Natural incubation usually about 28 days
This range accounts for breed differences and environmental factors affecting incubation length and hatch success
