In domestic waterfowl, the Brecon is one of the few breeds of geese originating in the UK. It was however, the first UK goose breed to be standardized. Rhys Llewelyn of Swansea noticed buff-coloured geese on hill farms in the Brecon Beacons and used this stock to develop his buff geese which were recognized as a breed in 1934. The Brecon was developed as a hardy, medium-weight goose which was able to look after itself on the farm - as long as it was protected from foxes. Intended as a table bird, a plump, round-breasted type was favoured. Buff birds are still popular on farms and smallholdings in Wales today because they do seem to grow well on free range grazing. They are also easier to dress for the table than white or grey geese.

Exhibition Brecons are beautiful birds with pink bills and pink feet to match. They have deep brown eyes. Their buff body feathers are each edged with a lighter shade.  Weights range from 16-20lbs in the gander and 14-18lbs in the goose. 

During the 1980s, it was difficult to find Brecons which fitted the standard description. Many farm 'buffs' are just buff geese. Unless the pink bill is selected for, the dominant orange beak will prevail. Such birds are not Brecons. Fortunately the breed became very popular and much sought after as a pet, ensuring its survival. Hand-reared Brecons can be very tame, and the goose is an excellent sitter and mother.

Brief facts on keeping geese

Photos and hyperlinks to other pages below

Left: Brecon goose preening