BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) - The Beardsley Zoo says the recent birth of five baby Cotton Patch Geese is a momentous occasion in their effort to conserve rare and endangered species.
It's the first time this threatened heritage breed has been born on zoo grounds.
After a 33-day incubation period, the goslings were born on March 21 to a pair of adult Cotton Patch Geese who are just over a year old.
Zoo Director Gregg Dancho said they are overjoyed at the successful breeding.
“It’s a significant step forward in our mission to protect and preserve wildlife, offering an incredible opportunity for our visitors to learn about the importance of agricultural heritage and watch the babies grow right here at the zoo," Dancho said.
Zoo officials said the Cotton Patch Geese used to be a staple on Southeastern farms, thanks to their ability to weed cotton and corn fields. But they started facing a population decline around the mid-20th century.
Zoo guests will be able to watch the goslings grow and develop over the summer.
