Canada Goose
NameCanada Goose
Common NameCanada Goose
Scientific NameBranta canadensis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)150
Length (cm)90
Weight (g)4500
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black head and neck with a prominent white chin strap that extends from behind the eye to under the throat. The body is brownish-gray, with lighter underparts and a white rump. The tail is black. Goslings are covered in soft yellow down with some olive-gray markings.
Vocalization / CallKnown for their loud, resonant honking calls, often heard during flight or when communicating within a flock. They also produce hisses and growls when agitated or defending their young.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatslakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, agricultural fields, parks, suburban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south to the northern United States. They migrate south for the winter, reaching parts of Mexico and the southern United States. Introduced populations exist in Europe and New Zealand.
Identifying Featuresblack head and neck, white chin strap, large size, brownish-gray body, loud honking call, often seen in flocks
Description
The Canada Goose is a large wild goose species with a distinctive black head and neck, white chin strap, and brownish-gray body. They are highly adaptable, often found grazing in open areas near water, and are well-known for their loud honking calls and migratory V-formations.
