Sebastopol Goose

Breed Overview

The Sebastopol goose originated in southeastern Europe, likely in regions surrounding the Black Sea, and was later imported to North America through the port city of Sebastopol, from which the breed takes its name. In parts of Europe, particularly Germany, the breed has long been known for its distinctive curled feathers, earning names that translate to “curl goose.” The Sebastopol was developed from the European Greylag goose and was recognized by the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Perfection in 1938.

Sebastopols are best known for their long, soft, spiraled feathers that drape over the body, wings, and tail. This unique plumage prevents flight and gives the breed its ornamental appearance. Because this trait is the result of selective breeding, responsible Sebastopol programs prioritize overall health, fertility, and adequate body size before feather quality.

They are medium-sized geese, with ganders averaging approximately 14 pounds and geese about 12 pounds. Sebastopols are calm, slow-moving, and easy to contain. They are moderate egg layers, producing 25–35 large white eggs per year, and are known for being broody and attentive parents. While they tolerate cold climates well, their loose feathering provides less protection from wet and windy weather, so additional shelter is recommended.

Our Sebastopol Geese

Our Sebastopol gaggle consists of two geese and two ganders:

Geese:

    •    Calamity Jane (White)    •    Miss Mona (Blue)

Ganders:

    •    Wild Bill (White)    •    Ed Earl (White)

Each bird was selected for temperament, structure, and feather quality. Together, they represent both classic white Sebastopols and emerging colored lines.

Our Breeding Goals

Our primary goal is to increase the number of healthy, well-structured Sebastopol geese while supporting greater color diversity within the breed. Alongside strong curl expression and overall vigor, we are especially interested in expanding colored Sebastopol genetics.

Through last year’s breeding, we discovered that Wild Bill likely carries colored genetics, creating exciting potential when paired with Miss Mona. Our breeding program focuses on producing Sebastopols that are fertile, calm, visually striking, and true to the breed’s ornamental and utility heritage.