How Does a Canadian Goose Fly South for the Winter?

Fat Stores

Before it is time to fly south for the winter, a Canadian Goose prepares itself by feeding voraciously. This packs on an extra layer of fat that the goose will rely on for energy during the long journey south. Ornithologists have noticed that the feeding frenzy is usually preceded by a drop in barometric pressure or a change in temperature. However, no one has yet determined exactly how a goose knows when to begin preparing its body for migration.

Environmental Changes

Changes in the environment tell a goose when to fly south for the winter. Frost and cold weather that reduce the food supply, shorter days and favorable wind currents are the cues for a Canadian Goose to leave its northern home and fly to a warmer climate. Again, scientists are not sure what triggers the start of a migration on a particular day, but they have observed the environmental changes that take place just before the geese leave.

Wind Currents

The route taken by a Canadian Goose flying south for the winter is determined not by the shortest distance, but by wind currents. Currents that help carry the goose south, especially currents over the Atlantic Ocean, are those favored by the migrating flock. A goose will instinctively avoid air currents that are not as favorable for heading south. In addition, a Canadian Goose will find the altitude that has the most favorable wind currents and fly at that altitude.