Goose eggs typically take between 28 and 35 days to hatch, with some variation depending on the breed and incubation conditions. Lighter breeds tend to hatch closer to 28-30 days, while larger breeds may take up to 35 days
. The average incubation period is often cited as about 30 days
. During incubation, it is common for goslings to take a long time-sometimes up to 36 hours-to fully hatch after they first start pipping (breaking through the shell)
. The hatching process can be slow and requires patience. If using an incubator, maintaining proper temperature (around 99.5°F for forced-air incubators) and humidity (about 55% during incubation, increasing to around 75% at hatching) is important for a successful hatch
. In natural conditions, a broody goose will incubate the eggs for this same period, usually starting full-time incubation once the clutch is complete. The goose eggs hatch over this 28-35 day window, after which the goslings emerge
. In summary:
- Incubation period: 28 to 35 days, averaging about 30 days
- Lighter breeds hatch earlier (28-30 days), larger breeds later (up to 35 days)
- Hatching can take up to 36 hours from initial pip to full emergence
- Proper temperature and humidity are critical for successful incubation
