Branta canadensis

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)

Habitat Canada geese live in a variety of habitats that are close to water, and grass or grain fields. They also tend to gather in lawns because they can eat grass and a lawn provides an unobstructed view to keep watch for predators.

Range Throughout the temperate and arctic areas of the North American continent; some have been introduced to Europe throughout the regions with similar conditions.

Description Black head and neck, brown body plumage, but with a white "chinstrap" that differentiates the Canada Goose from almost all of the other species of geese. They typically range from 75-110 cm in length, 127-185 cm in wingspan, and the males are about 5.5-12.1 lbs., although the females are a little lighter.

Ecological Notes The Canada Goose is a very common sight around North America in the appropriate conditions. Often these geese are considered to be pests. They feed by dabbling in water, as well as making use of grazing in fields and the like. The flocks of Canada Geese almost always form a v-shape when flying.

Personal Information Live Canada Geese were seen a few times near sources of water in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

References Canada Goose

Waterfowl ID: Canada Goose

Additional Information

Charles-Smith, L. E., Rutledge, M., Meek, C. J., Baine, K., Massey, E., Ellsaesser, L. N., & ... Degernes, L. A. (2014). Hematologic Parameters and Hemoparasites of Nonmigratory Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) From Greensboro, North Carolina, USA. Journal Of Avian Medicine & Surgery, 28(1), 16-23.

This article describes the trouble that the permanent settlement of Canada Geese along the eastern United States has caused. The primary purpose of this article is to examine the hemoparasites in these geese. It was found that a parasite of this type resided in 5% of the geese. This study is informative and important for the veterinary futures of these creatures.

Sanders, T. A., & Dooley, J. L. (2014). Demographics of Canada geese introduced in western Colorado. Journal Of Wildlife Management, 78(3), 413-428. doi:10.1002/jwmg.68

This article delves into the demographics of the breeding populations of Canada Geese in western Colorado. The results of clashes between human populations and the populations of these geese were of particular importance. The study concludes that the Canada Goose in Colorado has a high survival rate and that they are largely non-migratory from the state.

Contributed by Zak Palmer - 2014

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