Canada Goose
Branta canadensis

  Status

Native to Newfoundland and Labrador.

  Habitat

Barren land and marshes where berries and plants are abundant; lakes, streams, bays, riversides, and coastal estuaries.

  Range

Breeding range of the Canada Goose extends from northern Canada south to St. Lawrence River and north central states. Canada's winter from southern Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.

  Food

Their primary diet is wild berries such as blueberry, partridge berry, and marsh berry; They also feed on grass, grains, aquatic plants and will occasionally eat insects and their larva, crustaceans, small claims, snails and small fish when abundant.

  Predators/Threats

Canada Geese are preyed upon by Foxes, Lynx, Golden and Bald Eagles. They also represent an important food source for hunters throughout North America.

  Lifespan

Canada Geese may live from 20-30 years in captivity, considerably less in the wild.

  Appearance

The Canada Goose has a black head and neck; grey-brown body; white cheek patches which join under the chin; black feet, legs and bill.

  Breeding Biology

Canada Geese mate for life. They lay from 4-10 eggs (usually 5-6) which are dull or dirty white in color. Incubation by the female takes 28-30 day, during which time the male will remain close by to protect the nest by driving away intruders.

  Weight/Measurements

Depending on the race, weights will vary from (2.4 - 17.6 lbs)(1.1 - 8 kg).; length of (2 - 3.4 ft)(55.8 - 101.6 cm); and a wingspan of approximately (3 ft)(90 cm) to (6.6 ft)(2 m).

Notes:

  At Salmonier Nature Park

  Other Links

Geese in Space, a unique study that will enable Ducks Unlimited to learn more about Canada geese from Newfoundland, Greenland and Labrador.