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Canada Goose

Branta canadensis

Not yet photographed by the community

Introduced large goose; black neck and white chin strap.

Species Profile

Not assessed for UK Red/Amber/Green List; listed as Least Concern globally; considered a non-native invasive species in the UK.

Lifespan: 15–20 years in the wild; some individuals recorded living over 30 years
Size & Weight: 90–110 cm long, wingspan 160–180 cm; 2.8–6.5 kg (males larger than females)
Habitat: Lakes, reservoirs, rivers, coastal waters, and parkland with open water and adjacent grassland for grazing.
UK Distribution: Found year-round throughout the UK, with populations resident or partially migratory; numbers swell in winter with arrivals from northern Europe.
Diet: Herbivorous, feeding on grasses, aquatic plants, sedges, and clover; also grazes on cultivated crops and parkland grass.
Predators: Foxes and mink predate eggs and goslings; golden eagles and white-tailed eagles may take young birds; gulls prey on eggs.
Mating Season: February to May
Breeding: Clutch of 4–8 eggs, incubation period 28–30 days, typically one brood per year; pairs are monogamous and highly territorial during breeding.
Behaviour: Highly social and vocal, forming flocks that can number hundreds or thousands. Males and females share parental duties, with families remaining together for several months. They are territorial during breeding but gregarious in winter.

Did You Know?

•Canada Geese were introduced to the UK in the 17th century and have since become naturalised, with populations now numbering over 40,000 birds.
•They are capable of flying at speeds of 40–50 mph and undertake long-distance migrations across the Atlantic.
•Pairs often return to the same breeding territory year after year, sometimes for their entire lives.
•Goslings are precocial, able to swim and feed within hours of hatching.
•The distinctive black head and neck with white chin patch and cheeks make them highly recognisable; this pattern is unique to each individual.

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