Most, but not all, Canada Geese, migrate south for the winter. In autumn, the people of Canada know harsh temperatures are on the way when they see and hear large flocks of Canada Geese flying south. The Geese always fly in a "V" formation. We also know that spring is coming when we hear their honking call and see the geese returning about mid-March.
Canada Geese nest from the Arctic regions of Canada to the Central United States. In winter they live in the large area between southern Canada and Mexico. They have to stay in places where the water doesn't freeze so they can find food.
When in the water, Canada Geese eat pond plants, roots and algae. When on land, they feast on the grain in farmer's fields that is left behind after harvest. They love clover, wheat, corn, oats, seeds, berries and grass.
Canada Geese have a black head and bill and a long black neck with white on the cheeks. They have large, webbed black feet and black legs. Their breast and belly is beige to light brown. The back and upper wings are grayish-brown to dark brown. Their size depends on their species. There are eleven different types of Canada Geese. They can weigh anywhere from 1.4 to 7 kilograms. (3 to 15 pounds.)
Canada Geese have thirteen different calls, which allows them to communicate. (Talk to each other.) They honk when flying, hiss when angry, and cackle when feeding. They also use body language to communicate. They mate for life and always stay together as long as they are both alive and healthy. If you see one Canada Goose, it is likely that its mate is nearby.
The largest Canada Goose is called the Giant Canada Goose. The smallest is the Cackling Canada Goose. Aleutian Canada Geese are on Canada's threatened species list.
I hope you've enjoyed this bit of Canada Goose trivia. Come back next week to read about a scary encounter I had with a Canada Goose when I was a child.
Links:
 |
 |
 |
Go To Page: 1 2
