Canada Goose

A large waterfowl with a distinctive black head and neck, white 'chinstrap' cheek patch, and brownish-grey body. They are known for their 'V' flight formations and loud honking.

Dull brownish-black to charcoal grey on the dorsal surface; slightly paler and more matte on the ventral surface. No banding or spots, characteristic of the uniform wing coloration of this species.

Densely pennaceous and tightly interlocked with hooklets for flight efficiency; slight plumulaceous fluff at the very base of the calamus.

Stiff, smooth, and somewhat oily to the touch for water resistance. The dorsal surface has a slight waxy sheen while the underside is matte.

Uniform dark chocolate-brown color, extreme asymmetry of the vanes, and a very thick, sturdy white calamus (quill).

Extremely varied; found in ponds, lakes, rivers, grain fields, city parks, and suburban lawns near water.

Native to North America; breeds across Canada and the Northern US, wintering throughout the US and Mexico. Widely introduced in Europe and New Zealand.

Primary herbivore; they graze heavily on grasses and aquatic plants. They serve as a food source for large predators and contribute to nutrient cycling in wetlands.

Tundra Swan (larger, white), Black Vulture (different rachis color/shape), or Large Gulls (often have white spots or different gray tones).

Canada Geese undergo a total synchronous molt each summer, becoming flightless for about 45 days while their new flight feathers grow in.

Fair to Good condition. There is noticeable separation of the barbs ('zipped' open) along the trailing edge and some wear at the tip, suggesting it was molted or found after significant use.