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Photo: G. Bradley |
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UK
Safari Tip:
Get help identifying wetland birds with the beautifully illustrated fold
out ID chart in the Nature shop - click
here
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Latin name: Branta canadensis
Size: About 90 cms long.
Distribution: Large populations in England. Also found in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Months seen: All year round.
Habitat: Lakes, reservoirs and grassland near water.
Food: Grass and aquatic plants.
Special features: Canada Geese were first introduced into Britain around 300 years ago from North America. King Charles I kept them with other waterfowl on his lake in St. James Park, London.
They have a life span of approximately 20 years. At the age of one, they look for a partner, who they normally remain with for life.
The nest is built of twigs and dry leaves, normally at ground level. They line it with feathers plucked from their own bodies.
In March or early April the female lays 5 or 6 eggs which she incubates for 4 weeks, while the male defends the nest against any intruders.
In the 1950's, when their numbers increased to around 3,500, farmers became concerned about the damage the geese were doing while grazing on their crops. The authorities decided to move large numbers of the birds to different locations away from the crops. This simply had the effect of creating more colonies in more locations.
There are now large populations of Canada Geese in England, Wales and Northern
Ireland.
Canada Geese Photos
UK Safari Bird Section
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