Canada geese - weighing in at a whopping 6 to 11 kilograms with a wingspan of up to two metres! There are 10 different subspecies of Canada geese. (Branta canadensis). With their characteristic greyish-brown coloring, black head, long black neck and white cheek patch, these large birds seem to have developed a high tolerance for people. These “urban geese” can often be found inhabiting city parks and municipal golf courses providing an entertaining up-close look for those passing by.

These giant birds were at one point thought to be extinct, due to the destruction of wetlands and overharvesting, until a few remaining populations were discovered in the early 1960’s. Today the giants have made quite a comeback. These very vocal creatures can be heard flying in “V” formations across the skies throughout North America. The gander has a slower, low-pitched “ahonk” whereas the female goose’s call is a quick, higher pitched “hink” - making these mated pairs sound like one single goose.

In the spring, Canada geese migrate north to the marshes and areas where they were born. Mating takes place on the water, and pairs often mate for life. The female lays between four and ten cream colored eggs about nine centimetres (three and a half inches) long. The nests are usually built on the ground near water. The female goose chooses a site that has clear visibility so she can see any approaching predators, such as coyotes, larger predatory birds and turtles. The nest itself is made out of grass, leaves, twigs, bark and moss as well as down from the female’s body, which is added to cushion the eggs and keep them warm. (source - www.ducks.ca)