Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
on insects, snails, slugs, small reptiles, and waste rice; they provide great pest control without
using harsh chemicals.
The Muscovy duck had a far different history. The Muscovy is actually a perching duck and
will roost and nest in trees. They are a native of Central and South America. It is thought they
were domesticated in pre-Inca Peru to be used as pets. The Muscovy is a carnivorous duck
that eats small mammals, snakes, frogs, flies, and other insects. They can grow to be larger
than most breeds of duck. In the United States, many people keep this breed as pets because
they do not make much noise, and they have distinct personalities.
Geese are hardy, lively birds that practically raise themselves after they lose their down. Not
much maintenance work is required for the majority of a goose's life. They are elegant birds
and have a unique personality while being versatile.
The goose was domesticated both in eastern Asia and in northern Africa, Europe, and western
Asia. In eastern Asia, the swan goose (Anser cygnoides) was domesticated to become the
Chinese goose. These geese possess a large knob at the base of their bill. The European-type
goose was domesticated from the Greylag — or wild grey — goose (Anser anser) in northern
Africa, Europe, and western Asia. Both types have been used since first domesticated for their
meat, down, and eggs.
Archaeological evidence in Egypt has shown that geese were kept in ancient Egypt since 300
B.C. The Romans dedicated geese to the goddess Juno. Huge flocks of geese were raised in
western Europe and slowly herded to Rome to supply this great city with meat and feathers.
As time advanced, large flocks were raised in southern England, Holland, and Germany and
were driven to markets in large cities during the fall. Another important product of the goose
was the quill, which was used for pens.
Despite being domesticated for centuries, the goose has not undergone the drastic changes
seen in other domesticated livestock. The major changes include an increase in size, more fat
deposition under the skin, selection for color (most notably white), and improved fertility. The
domestic goose does tend to have an upright posture than its wild brethren and generally is
unable to fly.
In Asia, the goose is still an important livestock species. Markets do exist in the United States,
particularly among immigrants from Asia and along the eastern seaboard. Geese often act as
guards for property. For example, the company that brews Ballantine's Finest Blended Scotch
