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Size
Aprox 92 - 102 cm , Weighing 3.6 to 5.4 kg.
Back to
Size
Aprox 92 - 102 cm , Weighing 3.6 to 5.4 kg.
What Does the Canada Goose Look Like ?
Introduced species from N America, spreading sucessfully in the UK . Head and Neck Black throat White It forms flocks which are loud and noisy and is often regarded as a nuisance in areas where large numbers occur on amenity grassland and parks.The Canada Goose was introduced to Britain about 250 years ago and the feral population now exceeds 50,000. They are found in smaller numbers in Europe and still introduced into Scandinavia
Subspecies normally found in Europe is the nominate B. c. canadensis although there is some hint of B. c. maxima in some birds. B. c. maxima is the largest subspecies with a slightly darker lower neck and a small white patch on the forehead. Other subspecies occasionally come to Europe as vagrants.Although normally migratory, feral populations tend to be sedentary.How Big Is This Goose ?
Aprox 92 - 102 cm , Weighing 3.6 to 5.4 kg.
Description
A large goose, which has a distinctive black head and neck and large white throat patchWingspan: 180cm, Length: 100cm. Canada Geese can live for up to 30 years in captivity, but their average life span is 15-20 years in the wild. At the age of one, they look for a partner, who they normally remain with for life.When on the ground a group is known as a "Gaggle" , when in the air a "Skein"
Where does it live?
Breeding
In short vegetation near pools and lakes - likes islands in lakes and gravel pits. Some nest on moorland.The nest is built of twigs and dry leaves, normally at ground level. They line it with feathers plucked from their own bodies.In March or early April the female lays 5 or 6 eggs which she incubates for 4 weeks, while the male defends the nest against any intruders.
When does it Breed ?March to June , 5 - 6 eggs, Incubation 28 - 30 days , young fledging at 6 - 7 weeks, Suspended . Nests on the ground.
Where to see it
A familiar goose seen around lakes, gravel pits and town parks.
What does it eat?
Vegetation - roots, grass, leaves and seeds.
What does it sound like?Click here to Hear the Canade Goose
Loud 'honking' calls.
When to see it
All year round. In winter, occasional birds of small races are seen with other wild geese species in N Ireland and W Scotland, and may be vagrant wild birds.Protection
The geese are a protected species. They are protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This Act makes it an offence to kill, injure, famage or remove their nests without a licence.
