Geese, Ducks, Mergansers

Canada Goose, Branta canadensis

Family Anatidae (Geese, Ducks, Mergansers)

Size: 27"–35", depending on race

Season: Winter

Habitat: Marshes, grasslands, public parks, golf courses

A common goose, the Canada Goose comprises several subspecies—fewer since a reclassification placed some of its smaller members under the cackling goose. Often found in suburban settings, this vegetarian bird forages on land for grass, seeds, and grain, or in the water, upending like the dabbling ducks for aquatic vegetation. It has a heavy body with short, thick legs and a long neck. Overall it is barred gray brown with a white rear, short black tail, black neck, and a white patch running under the neck to behind the eyes. During its powerful flight in the classic V formation, the white across the rump makes a semicircular patch between the tail and back. Its voice is a loud honk. The adult is illustrated.