Canada Goose at the Anacostia

Canada Geese with baby

Tim Ervin

The Canada Goose was once a seasonal guest in the Anacostia Watershed, but now they can be seen all year long in the park. They are seen in groups and hundreds can be found together at one time.

Physical description:

The Canada Goose or Canadian Goose is a charismatic species of waterfowl. Recognized across North America on land and in the air. They migrate in groups in a V-shaped formation. Canada Geese are medium-sized birds with a black head and neck. They have brown bodies and tan breasts and underbelly. Additionally, they have white cheek patches and black legs. Both sexes look identical.

Locality:

As members of the waterfowl order of birds, Canada geese are most at home near any body of water. As the name suggests, they live throughout Canada. They will migrate south to the United States and Mexico in the winter. Several populations live in the United States year-round.

Population Status:

Canadian Geese have the “Least Concern” given by the IUCN. Their range does not reach outside of North America. They have a population of 7 million individuals. A female will have one brood a year with up to 8 eggs in the clutch. The breeding season is from late winter to late spring, anywhere between February and May.

Trophic Level / Diet:
Canadian Geese are herbivorous. They are primary consumers with a diet consisting of grass, berries, and seeds.

 

Flying Geese

Michael Herrera

Scientific Name: Branta canadensis

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Anseriformes

Family: Anatidae

Genus: Branta

Species: Branta canadensis