How to Identify a Canadian Goose

Identifying a Canadian (Branta Canadensis) goose is very simple. Canadian geese migrate south during the colder northern winters, and they mate beginning in their second year. Their distinctive honking is a great way for them to announce their presence as well.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Binoculars
• Patience

1. Find an area that is well suited to spot a Canadian goose. This includes ponds, lakes or even golf courses. Some species of Canadian geese will lay their eggs on beaver dams.

2. Locate a rural farm field near water and far enough from human habitation to not disturb the Canadian geese.

3. Recognize the distinctive black ring collar of the Canadian goose. Most North American species will exhibit a dark brown to black feather pattern.

4. Find that the Canadian goose has a black head atop a very long, slender black neck. The bird will also have a white chinstrap for further identification.

5. Understand that the Canadian goose can have feathers ranging in color from very light tan to a cream color on its breast. It's under tail will be white in color.

Tips & Warnings

• Identifying a Canadian goose may be easier farther north in the Americas due to farming changes that allow for new year-round feeding habits.
• Avoid quick movements when observing Canadian geese as any movement may set them into flight.
• Take care not to interfere with mating practices of these birds. Canadian geese are very aggressive when confronted during mating or even when simply resting.
• Although feeding wild Canadian geese is easy to do, especially at ponds and lake settings, take every precaution to avoid their feces as it may contain harmful bacteria. Wash and sanitize hands after every encounter.

Who Can Help:

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!

Resources

• Find more Canadian goose information at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
• Visit the South Dakota bird website.
• This is the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website.