Canada Goose

A large waterbird with a distinctive black head and neck 'sock' contrasted by a white cheek patch. The body is brown-grey with a pale breast. They are known for their 'honking' calls and V-shaped flight formations.

Dull brownish-grey to dark fuscous dorsal surface with a lighter, silvery-grey ventral side. The coloration is monochromatic without banding, which is diagnostic for this species.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for flight rigidity; some plumulaceous (fluffy) barbs near the superior umbilicus (base of the vane); barbs show some separation (splits) due to handling.

Relatively stiff and smooth; the surface is slightly matte with a waxy, water-repellent coating characteristic of waterfowl (uropygial gland oil).

Large size, extreme asymmetry of the vane, white/pale thick rachis, and uniform brownish-grey color without barring or spots.

Extremely versatile: lakes, ponds, bays, marshes, grain fields, and frequently urban parks, golf courses, and suburban lawns.

Native to North America; breeds across Canada and northern USA; migrates to southern USA and Mexico, though many urban populations are now year-round residents.

Primary consumer/herbivore; they maintain grasslands by grazing and serve as a prey source for large predators like bald eagles and coyotes.

Other large geese like the Greater White-fronted Goose (more brownish) or Tundra Swan (much larger, whiter rachis). Gulls have thinner, more flexible primaries.

Canada Geese are famous for their migratory V-formation, which reduces wind resistance for birds trailing the leader. They are known to mate for life.

Fair to Good. There are several 'zips' or splits in the vane where barbs have unhooked, likely from wind wear or physical contact. The calamus is intact, suggesting a natural molt.