The big, black-necked Canada Goose, with its signature white chinstrap mark, is a well-known and widespread bird commonly found in fields, parks, and various open spaces.
These iconic "honkers" are a part of many landscapes, as thousands of them migrate north and south every year. Their majestic V-formations in the sky are a familiar sight during migration periods.
However, in recent years, as urban and suburban areas continue to expand, more and more Canada Geese are choosing to stay put year-round in these regions, often grazing on lawns and farm fields, leading some people to view them as pests.
Identifying the Canada Goose
Where to Find the Canada Goose
During the summer and at other times of the year, Canada Geese are relatively easy to spot. They are commonly seen swimming in open water, resting near shorelines, or grazing on grass. Often heard flying above, their honks are a signature sound, whether during the day or at night. With careful attention, you can differentiate their honks from those of other goose species or swans, helping you identify them from afar.
Other Names
The Canada Goose is known by different names in various languages, including:
Barnacla Canadiense Grande (Spanish)
Bernache du Canada (French)
Backyard Tips for Managing Canada Geese
Preventing Geese from Invading Your Lawn
If you maintain lawns or large grass areas near water, this can be an open invitation for Canada Geese to settle. To discourage them from walking on your lawn, you can use plastic mesh over the grass. This simple step can make your lawn less inviting for the geese.
Attracting Canada Geese to Nest
Dear Lykkers! If you wish to attract a breeding pair of Canada Geese, consider installing a nest platform well before breeding season. These platforms can be built using plans available on the All About Birdhouses site. Ensure the nest structure is of the appropriate size for Canada Geese, as they prefer specific nesting conditions.
All Wild Goose Species
Video by Animal Kingdom
Cool Facts About the Canada Goose
Subspecies and Regional Variations
At least 11 subspecies of Canada Goose have been identified, though only a few stand out as distinctive. Geese tend to get smaller the farther north you go, and they become darker as you move westward. Some of the smallest forms have been classified as a separate speces—the Cackling Goose.
Shifting Migration Patterns
In recent years, migratory populations of Canada Geese have altered their traditional migration patterns. Some are no longer traveling as far south in the winter as they did in the past. This northward range shift is attributed to changes in agricultural practices, which have made waste grain more available during the fall and winter months. Additionally, changes in weather patterns and hunting pressure have also played a role in these shifting behaviors.
Northward Movement for Molt
Even Canada Geese that are part of "resident" populations, which don’t migrate southward during the winter, make a northward journey in late summer. This movement is primarily for molting, allowing them to take advantage of earlier vegetation growth. Nonbreeding geese or those that lose their nests early in the season may migrate further north—sometimes more than 1,500 km—where they can find the resources needed for their molt.
Conservation and Management of the Canada Goose
The “Giant” Canada Goose
The "giant" Canada Goose, Branta canadensis maxima, once bred from central Manitoba to Kentucky but faced near extinction in the early 1900s. Efforts to reestablish the subspecies were successful in many regions, and today, their population has rebounded so strongly that they have become a nuisance in urban and suburban areas.
Assortative Mating
In a pattern known as "assortative mating," Canada Geese tend to choose mates of similar size. This behavior ensures that pairs are more likely to be well-matched, which can help with their reproductive success.
Longevity of the Canada Goose
The oldest known wild Canada Goose was a female that lived to be at least 33 years, 3 months old. She was banded in Ohio in 1969 and was shot in Ontario in 2001. Her long life is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this species.
The Canada Goose is a fascinating species, well-adapted to both migratory and resident lifestyles. Whether seen in flight during migration or grazing in suburban lawns, these birds continue to capture the attention of nature enthusiasts and city dwellers alike. Their distinctive calls and impressive migrations remind us of the natural world’s complexity and the importance of preserving habitats for future generations of wildlife.
