We had an unexpected and wonderful surprise this weekend on the farm. If you have read past blogs and remember, we have six geese here that are almost thirty years old. Each spring, the geese lay eggs, sometimes even nest, once in a great while hatching a gosling or two, but none ever grow into adulthood. Along with our domesticated farm family, we also have various predators who make quick work of decimating ducks and goslings. After much debate, The Bibbed Wonder removed the decorative white fence that went up the lane and replaced it with eight strands of high tensile electric fence. I had severe reservations over the removal of the white fence. However, dear reader, the new electric fence seems to create a safe environment for both our domestic geese and wild Canadian geese. We have seven baby goslings swimming alongside the adult geese, eating bugs and foraging in the now safely enclosed pastures. We could not be happier or more excited for this new and surprising addition to our farm family.
The goslings are absolutely adorable. They are relatively large, yellow, and fluffy. What I find interesting is that the entire flock of geese appear to be soundly invested in the safety and care of these seven yellow balls of fluff. The whole flock encircles the babies as they forage in the pasture fields. They surround and envelop them in safety as they swim to the tiny island in the center of the pond to nest for the night. The gander, or father, is never far from the goslings or the goose that hatched them. It is a great community effort to raise these little ones and ensure their well-being. We are all hoping beyond hope that they remain safe and grow into adulthood.
Even my bib overall wearing buddy, who has no love for the "ungrateful, hissing, sh** machines," seems pleased and excited for our new family members. It is true; the geese are a bit put-offish. They come clamoring noisily up the lane when they are hungry, demanding loudly to be fed. Only to hiss, honk, and threaten one as we meet their demands. They think nothing of chasing us away once they are fed. Although they have never nipped us, I believe it is a real possibility that they would. However, I find these cantankerous, geriatric water foul charming and endearing. When I was in college and living here with my parents, we bought twelve geese and raised them by hand. I used to walk them around the farm, calling, "Baaaa-bieeeees! Hey, hey, hey, hey!" in a sing-song voice. They would return my call in the same sing-song style and follow me about in a uniform line. Even now that it is almost thirty years later, when I call to them in that same sing-song voice, they respond and come waddling after me. They do indeed litter the blacktop with waste, but they are charming and endearing in their own grumpy way.
If you think of it and are so inclined, send some well wishes and good vibes our way for the safety of these little yellow balls of fluff. Although it appears to be much safer, I am sure they still face dangers throughout the night. As always, dear reader, stay safe, stay smart, be grateful for the small gifts, and keep washing your hands.
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