Canada Geese Nest Guardians

While the female Canada Goose incubates the nest, it's up to the male Canada Goose to protect it.

Picture from Arkive

Canada Geese often build their nests on the ground near water leaving them open to predators.  While they prefer a spots with an unobstructed view in multiple directions, it is the male's job to guard the female and the nest.  Soon after they hatch, goslings spend most of their time sleeping and feeding and will  remain with their parents constantly

Canadian Geese - Mates for Life

The Canadian Geese share an important feature with some of their feathered friends.  Like Swans, Black Vultures, Turtle Doves, and Bald Eagles, the Canadian Geese mate for life.

Picture from IBC

Typically during the second year of their lives, Canada Geese find a mate. They are monogamous, and most couples stay together all of their lives. However, if one dies, the other may find a new mate.  Males and females almost always pick a mate who is very close to their own size.

Geese Don't Always Fly South

The familiar “V” shaped sight of a flock of Canada geese heading south for the winter has been a common occurrence throughout North America for as long as it has been populated. However, in recent years it seems like flocks of geese can be seen heading every direction at just about any time of year; why is this?

Canada geese have traditionally migrated south each winter in search of a reliable food supply, open water, and safety from hungry predators. However, the urbanization of many parts of North America over the last century has changed this. Golf courses and public parks are home to many man-made bodies of water that are shallow enough to not freeze. Human food waste provides a reliable meal for the geese, and the majority of their natural predators, such as golden eagles, wolves and mountain lions, are no longer present. Because of all this, Canada geese have little reason to leave many areas in the winter, and flocks often become permanent residents year-round.

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