Canada Goose

Branta canadensis

Genus · Black Geese Family · Ducks, Geese, and Swans
Observation tips Difficulty: EASY
Best time
🕒 Any
Activity
☀️ Diurnal
Best months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Observation habitat
FarmlandLake wetlandsUrban

Extremely easy to find in urban parks and on farmland year-round. Look for the iconic white chinstrap.

Canada Goose
Stats
Wingspan127–185 cm
Weight2500–6500 g
Length75–110 cm
Lifespan wild10–24 yrs
Size
XS
S
M
L
XL
Nesting
Nest typeScrape
Clutch size4–8 eggs
Incubation25–30 days
Breeding months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Regional Status (Europe)
LC
Least Concern (Europe)
IUCN Red List
MigrationMigratory
Social BehaviourFlocking

Diet: Herbivore

🌾Grain
🌱Grass
🍃Plants
🌻Seeds

Habitat

🚜 Farmland🌿 Grassland🛶 Lake wetlands🏞️ River🏙️ Urban
✦ Fun Fact

Canada Geese often fly in a V-formation to improve flight efficiency. Each bird benefits from aerodynamic upwash created by the wings of the bird in front, reducing energy costs during long-distance migration.

About

A large goose with a long black neck and a white 'chinstrap'. Though native to North America, it was introduced to Europe in the 17th century. It is now a very common feral species. It lives on lakes, reservoirs, and urban park ponds. This bird is sometimes considered a nuisance due to its aggressive behavior.

Behaviour

Canada Geese are highly territorial during the breeding season. They will hiss and charge at humans who approach their nests. They primarily graze on grass and aquatic plants. They have a loud, resonant 'honk'. In flight, they move in large V-formations and call constantly.
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