BIRDS: NONPASSERINES: GEESE, DUCKS, AND MERGANSERS

Canada Goose, Branta canadensis

Family Anatidae (Geese, Ducks, and Mergansers)

Size: 27–35" depending on race

Season: Winter; during spring and fall migrations

Habitat: Marshes, grasslands, public parks, golf courses

The Canada goose is the state’s most common goose, and is found in suburban settings. It is vegetarian, foraging on land for grass, seeds, and grain or in the water by upending like the dabbling ducks. It has a heavy body with short, thick legs and a long neck. Overall, its coloring is barred gray brown, with a white rear, a short black tail, a black neck, and a white patch running from under the neck to behind the eye. During its powerful flight the goose’s white rump makes a semicircular patch between the tail and back. Its voice is a loud honk. In flight Canada geese form the classic V formation. The adult is illustrated.