Canada Goose
Branta canadensis
Visual Identification
Appearance
The Canada Goose is characterized by its large size, long neck, and distinctive coloration. Its body is primarily brown with a black head and neck, white cheeks, and a white chinstrap. The underparts are typically lighter, ranging from pale grey to white.
Both males and females share similar plumage, with males generally slightly larger. Juveniles resemble adults but may have a duller coloration and less distinct white cheek patches.
Canada Geese have very similar plumage to the Cackling Goose, which is much smaller and has a shorter neck.
Size
Length
76cm to 110cm
Wingspan
127cm to 185cm
Weight
3kg to 9kg
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Black White
Secondary Colour
Buff Grey
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Black
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Canada Geese are widely distributed across North America, from the Arctic tundra to subtropical regions. They thrive in various habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and, increasingly, urban areas with open water and grassy spaces.
While native to North America, introduced populations have been established in parts of Europe, including the UK and New Zealand. Many northern populations migrate to the southern United States and Mexico in winter.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subarctic, Subtropical
Distribution Map
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Canada Goose. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
- Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
- This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations
We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:
- More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
- How birds move around during different seasons
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Share your thoughtsBird Attributes Explained
Our bird attributes system rates various aspects of a bird's capabilities on a scale of 0-100, based on data from field observations, scientific studies, and expert knowledge.
Attribute Categories:
- Agility: Manoeuvrability, speed, and grace in flight or movement.
- Strength: Physical power, often correlating with size and hunting abilities.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in various environments or changing conditions.
- Aggressiveness: Territorial behaviour and assertiveness, particularly during breeding seasons.
- Endurance: Stamina, often seen in migration patterns or foraging behaviours.
Understanding the Ratings:
- 0-20: Very Low
- 21-40: Low
- 41-60: Average
- 61-80: High
- 81-100: Very High
Remember, these attributes are relative to other bird species and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Hover over the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Tap the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Agility
Reflects the bird's manoeuvrability, speed, and grace in flight or movement.
Canada Geese display considerable agility in flight, capable of swift manoeuvres and precise landings. Their ability to navigate complex urban environments and perform intricate flight patterns during migration demonstrates their nimbleness.
Strength
Indicates the bird's physical power, often correlating with size and hunting abilities.
These large waterfowl possess significant strength, evident in their ability to carry their substantial body weight (up to 9 kg) during long-distance flights. Their powerful wings and robust build contribute to their formidable presence.
Adaptability
Represents the bird's ability to thrive in various environments or changing conditions.
Canada Geese exhibit remarkable adaptability, thriving in diverse habitats from Arctic tundra to urban parks. Their flexible diet and ability to adjust to human-altered landscapes have led to their widespread success and population growth.
Aggressiveness
Measures the bird's territorial behaviour and assertiveness, particularly during breeding seasons.
Whilst not typically aggressive, Canada Geese can display territorial behaviour, especially during nesting season. They are known to vigorously defend their nests and young, sometimes confronting perceived threats with hissing and charging.
Endurance
Reflects the bird's stamina, often seen in migration patterns or foraging behaviours.
The endurance of Canada Geese is impressive, particularly during migration. Their ability to fly at speeds up to 70 km/h over long distances, coupled with their capacity to remember and revisit migration routes, showcases their exceptional stamina.
Diet
Canada Geese are primarily herbivores, feeding on grasses, aquatic plants, and agricultural crops. They also consume small insects, crustaceans, and mollusks, especially during breeding. Their adaptable diet has contributed to their success in urban environments.
Their strong, serrated bills are ideal for tearing grass and uprooting plants, but they also feed on softer aquatic vegetation.
Behaviour
Canada Geese are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks. They are known for their V-shaped flying formations during migration, which helps conserve energy.
On land, they graze in groups, with some individuals acting as sentinels to watch for potential threats.
Vocalisation
Nesting & Breeding
Canada Geese typically form monogamous pairs that may last for life. Breeding occurs in spring, with timing varying by latitude. Pairs often return to the same nesting site each year.
Nests are usually built on the ground near water, constructed of plant material and lined with down. Females lay 2-8 cream-colored eggs per clutch.
Incubation lasts about 28 days, and it is performed solely by the female while the male guards nearby. Goslings are precocial and can leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching, staying with their parents for up to two months.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While the Canada Goose is not globally threatened, some populations face localized challenges.
In many urban areas, they are considered overabundant, leading to management efforts. Conservation focuses on maintaining healthy populations while mitigating human-wildlife conflicts.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Canada Geese near water bodies, including lakes, ponds, and coastal areas.
- Listen for their distinctive honking calls, especially during flight.
- Observe their behavior in urban parks, where they have become common residents.
- In the UK and parts of Europe, watch for them as introduced species in similar habitats.
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Canadian Goose, Honker
Family:
AnatidaeAverage Lifespan
10 to 25 years
Max Lifespan
42 years
Predators
Did You Know?
- Canada Geese can fly at speeds up to 70 km/h (43 mph) during migration.
- They have excellent memory and can remember migration routes and stopover sites for years.
- Despite their name, some populations of Canada Geese are non-migratory and remain in the same area year-round.
- There are anecdotal reports of captive Canadian Geese living for 80 years.
Similar Birds
References
- 1 3
website: BirdLife International. 2018. Branta canadensis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T22679935A131909406.
View source - 2
report, 2015: Wetlands International
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