If the birds are to remain confined beyond this time, additional floor space will be needed as they increase in size. Cover the floor with 4 inches of absorbent litter, such as wood shavings, chopped straw or peat moss. Be sure the litter is free from mold when it is put down. Maintain good litter condition and prevent molds from growing by stirring frequently, removing wet spots and periodically adding clean dry litter. The brooding of goslings differs from chicks in that goslings are larger at day-old than chicks and require more space.
Heat lamps are a convenient source of radiant heat for brooding small flocks.
A 250 watt lamp will heat 25 goslings. It may be necessary to raise the hover 3 to 4 inches higher than for chicks. Goslings usually do not require brooding heat beyond 4 to 5 weeks of age. Confine the birds to the heated area for the first 3 or 4 days with a corrugated paper or wire mesh fence encircling the brooder. The behavior of the birds is an indication of their comfort.