How many goslings in an average size brood survive long enough to fly?
It normally takes goslings 9 to 10 weeks to mature enough and develop flight feathers sufficient to enable them to fly. During those weeks, they are exposed to a multitude of hazards including exposure from inclement weather, disease, accidents, and predation. Predators, including mink, raccoons, fox, coyotes, snapping turtles, owls, hawks, and even large fish take a toll on the young goslings. On the average, 3-4 goslings in the brood will reach flight stage.
