II.

Habitat and Migration of Geese

Geese are found on bodies of fresh water and salt water in the northern hemisphere. Geese live in seas, lakes, bays, marshes, and ponds. The Canada goose, a familiar North American bird, can even be seen in yards, fields, parks, and golf courses. Geese spend more time on land than either ducks or swans because they feed largely by grazing on plants.

Most geese are migratory, and they migrate in spring to nesting grounds in the far north. In fall they fly south to warmer wintering grounds. The Canada goose is a noted long-distance migrant, flying as much as 1,600 km (1,000 mi) from wintering grounds to breeding grounds near the Arctic Circle. Some Canada geese winter as far south as Mexico. Canada geese have been brought to Europe, where they breed in the United Kingdom and Scandinavia.

Before migration geese fatten up for the long journey ahead. They also shed their feathers and grow a new set. A migrating flock may contain thousands of birds. Geese usually follow the same route, or flyway, year after year. They make several stops along the way to rest and eat, sometimes staying as long as several weeks at a favorite stopover. Family groups stick together within the migrating flock. The young travel with their parents to learn the way. During migration geese travel at speeds of 60 to 100 kilometers per hour (40 to 60 mph).

During the 20th century the Canada goose expanded its breeding territory and lost much of its urge to migrate. Canada geese now nest in every state of the United States and every province of Canada. Wildlife refuges in the Midwestern United States have become popular wintering spots for Canada geese and other species. Some Canada geese have become permanent residents in urban areas where food is plentiful year-round. In some communities these geese are considered a nuisance because they are loud and messy. Because geese eat a lot, they also leave many droppings.