New foster - a swan :)

[AnnaCrew]

Who knows anything about feeding goslings? Tonight I got a new foster


Probably a swan or geese baby. He was taken after 5 hours waiting for parents or siblings to appear. I'm feeding him with soaked white bread, chopped soft grass and egg yolk. If you know something else that i can add to his ration, and also - how much and how often to feed, I will be really thankful.

[KiraNGunnersmom]

Definitly not an expert here but I dont know if it's the same for geese as it is for baby birds but bread can clog the gulet(I think that is what it is called) and kill them.  Adults have gravel in thiers to help them digest the bread but the babies dont.
I had to bring a baby bird to the bird rehab and that is what they told us.  can you give it chicken or duck mash?
It sure is a cute little thing!

[marypyrs]

I've had tons of Geese over the years. Buy a Goose/Duck Starter - available at the feed stores. Don't buy the Chick starter because it's usually medicated. As he/she grows you can switch to a Goose/Duck Grower feed. Free feed at all times. You can find the water dishes that a 2 liter pop bottle screws into and allow water at all times as well. Put a heat lamp (small) above one corner so the little guy can warm up when needed.

Funny thing is that even with the special food given to the "orphans", the little ones who are raised naturally grow faster.

They are sweet as can be, however, and you'll most likely be his/her "Momma" in that Gosling's mind. And will be followed everywhere you go. 

You're amazing! You have a heart of gold. 

[AnnaCrew]

I'm his momma already, that's the problem. I do know how this one get so confused and picked humans as his parents, but it has happened and yes, it means slavery for a while - last night he slept in the little basket on my pillow - husband quitly moved to another room for some sleep and then was taking the shift over. He has patience of a saint.

At present baby Eddy is sleeping underneath my t-shirt on my tummy and happy talking to me (I must respond all the time otherwise he starts cry).

Got the Chicken starter (one kind here for all babies - chicken, ducklings and goslings), and next week he will start to be walked outside - we still havesome patches in the garden when soft grass is left and he will get a swim in pond as well, but not yet.

So far he is perky, eating really well and all dogs already got their pecks on noses. Cats are looking coutious as well

[marypyrs]

Aren't they just the sweetest little things ever? I LOVE those sweet little whistling sounds they make and the way they nuzzle their little beek into your neck.

It won't be long till the kitties know to back off. It was a common sight to see one or more weaker wee ones left with the Pyrs to babysit while Momma & Daddy Goose went off for a swim. 

I look forward to many photos of Eddy and his extended family. (You have a great Hubby there by the way.  )

(modified for spell check:-( )
 

[People Whisperer]

Oh, I just love that sweet little face! And his name fits him perfectly!!! I can't wait to see him grow

[GoldenPyrs]

Awwwwww, he is precious!  I have very fond memories of my first baby duck when I was 5 y/o.  "Squeeky" had a tough start (soft shell) & we hand raised him, too.  I assume that goslings are just as sweet as baby ducks?  Thank you for caring for him.  You & you husband are both amazing, any animal in your care is truly blessed. 

[AnnaCrew]

This morning I woke with him sitting on my face and happy telling me all last night's dreams.

And then Eddy got his breakfest before I got my coffee. It is like having a human newborn at home again



 

[marypyrs]

Well, Good Morning Mr. Eddy! He's looking perky today. 

You know, from the photo he's looking more like a Cygnet. What do you think? He's adorable and I think he's grown overnight. You're such a good "Momma". 

[AnnaCrew]

I'm waiting the answer from our bird experts, but yes - he/she may grown into the swan. But wich? We have several species here, and is the baby he or she? I sent them pictures so I do hope to get the right answer.

[marypyrs]

Wouldn't that be wonderful?

[AnnaCrew]

They replied, but not exact answer. He is definitely a swan baby - that's for sure. But which one

Cygnus olor
http://putni.nerealitate.lv/lvp/lvp_cygolo.htm

 or
Cygnus Cygnus
http://putni.nerealitate.lv/lvp/lvp_cygcyg.htm#Citi

We have here about 1000 pairs of Cygnus olor nestin in my country, and only 150 - 200 pairs of Cygnus Cygnus, so most likely he must be the first one. Beutiful bird it will be, big one and probably quite bossy Like geese I like them a lot so if the baby will survive and decides to stay with us - what a sight it will be!

[marypyrs]

This is very exciting Anna. What species, I suppose, is something that will have to wait a bit to be identified. But 1000  pair is a small amount. 150 to 200 far more so. I'm thrilled for you! I can't wait for more updates.

Modified to add that in speaking with my Son - the Cygnus olor is most likely - judging by the color of the beek and feet. It will be interesting to see if he is right.
Jane

[AnnaCrew]

It would be great - since I was attacked by some of them in the park when I was 5 or so, I just love them

[marypyrs]

Haha! Considering that the life span of these Swans can be 40 years, perhaps some thought that their young friend ( you ) would be a good surrogate for one of theirs in need. I'm thinking they were correct.