The Sebastopol is a breed of domestic goose, descended from the European Graylag.[1] They were also referred to as Danubian geese; a name first used for the breed in Ireland in 1863. [2] 'Danubian' was used as a synonym in the 19th century; and only given precedence by Edward Brown after the turn of the century.[3] The Sebastopol is a medium-sized goose with long, white curly feathers. The feathers of the neck are smooth and sometimes greyish-brown. Crosses have produced all-gray, buff, and saddle back variants.[4][5] Feathers on the breast may be curly (frizzle) or smooth. The gander weighs 12-14 lbs while the goose weighs 10-12 lbs. The legs and shanks are orange and the eyes bright blue. On average, females produce 25-35 eggs per year.[6]. Though domesticated breeds of geese generally retain some flight ability, Sebastopols cannot fly well due to the curliness of their feathers and have difficulty getting off the ground.[7][8] They need plenty of water in order to keep themselves clean, and to clean their sinuses (as do all waterfowl).[9]
In German, they are called Lockengans or Struppgans, meaning "curl-goose" and "unkempt goose".
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It has been stated the breed was developed in Central Europe along the Danube and the Black Sea.[10][11] However, it is known the birds were originally met with in the Crimea and sent from the port of Sevastopol, Ukraine as the name implies, and arrived in England in 1860.[12][13] By the 19th century they were found in all the countries surrounding the Black Sea. The alternate name Danubian reflected their prevalence around the river Danube.[14] They were originally bred to use their curly feathers in pillows and quilts.[15]
Breeding over the last hundred years has increased the average weight of the birds by thirty percent.[16] This occurred in America due to matings with Embden Geese made in the late 19th century.[17]It is best to avoid breeding two specimens both having curly breast feathers, as they may develop abnormal wings.