by Carie Stafford
Grady the Goose
You guessed it, my name is Grady. I believe I am a smooth-breasted, spotted Sebastopol goose. I have no idea how old I am, and the last time I checked, I am a male. Sounds corny, but I was hit in the head by a car about two and a half years ago, and my memory is still blank. I have no idea where I used to live or who my parents were.
I do know this: I was rescued and brought to a veterinary hospital, where I had three surgeries to put my beak back together. I had pins put in it, and I was fed through a feeding tube for four months. The people who took care of me were very nice, and I enjoyed being held and petted.
Why do I think I am a smooth-breasted Sebastopol goose? I have these fluffy, curly feathers that are fluted in design, which prevents me from being able to fly. I have spots of gray all over my body, and my neck and breast area are smooth in appearance. I think that narrows down my species pretty good.
Sebastopol geese are also known as the Danubian goose. We were originally found in countries around the Black Sea and Danube, and then brought to Britain in the 1800s. We are gentle in nature and have pleasant personalities, not the typical angry goose that chases people. We may look like balls of fluff, but we are pretty hardy. We enjoy the water, no matter what the weather.
I now live on a farm and am enjoying life. I have goat and cat friends, but best of all I have my own harem. My Mom got eight chicks about a year ago. She hand-fed them and cared for them until they were ready to live outside, where I then took over their care. I watch over them as they roam the property, eating, and then at night when it is bed time. I count to ensure they are all in the hen house before I allow Mom or Dad to shut the door. I take my job seriously. Every now and then, I do take a break and visit with the goats.
I love my water! If you don’t see me with my girls, I probably have my head in a bucket of water. What can I say, I like keeping my face clean. The buckets are a one-time use. After I am done with them, I admit I dump them over. I also have my own personal swimming pool. My parents keep it heated in cold weather, which is where you will find me even in the dead of winter. I bet you’re jealous!
Well, I have to go. My harem is moving, duty calls…
