Canadian geese, a common waterfowl species, do lay eggs as a central part of their reproductive cycle. The egg-laying phase is a fundamental component of their annual life history, leading to the hatching of young goslings.
When Canadian Geese Lay Eggs
Canadian geese begin their breeding season in early spring, with nesting activities typically starting from mid-March through late April. The exact timing can vary by regional climate, with some eggs laid as early as late March. Geese form pairs and select nesting territories from late February to mid-March, with egg-laying occurring from March to mid-May.
The female goose generally lays one egg every one to two days until her clutch is complete. This sequential laying ensures that all eggs can be incubated simultaneously, allowing for a synchronized hatch. While they are known to mate for life, geese typically produce one brood per year. Most geese begin breeding when they are around two to three years old, continuing to nest annually thereafter.
Nests and Egg Appearance
Canadian geese are particular about their nesting locations, often choosing sites near water that offer concealment and an unobstructed view of their surroundings. These sites can include islands, muskrat houses, artificial nesting structures, or areas with thick vegetation along shorelines. They also adapt to urban environments, sometimes nesting in flower boxes, landscaping, or even on rooftops.
The female constructs a shallow, bowl-shaped depression. The nest is made from plant materials such as dry grasses, reeds, lichens, and mosses. It is lined with soft down feathers plucked from her breast, providing insulation.
Clutch size ranges from two to eight eggs, averaging five to six per nest, though some can extend up to thirteen. Eggs are large, measuring approximately 3.3 inches long and 2.2 inches wide. They are creamy white to pale yellowish-tan, with an oval or oblong shape.
The Journey from Egg to Gosling
Once the female has laid all her eggs, she begins the incubation process, which typically lasts around 25 to 30 days. The female dedicates most of her time to incubating, regulating their temperature and humidity with her body heat. During this period, she only leaves the nest for short intervals, usually two to three times a day for about 10 to 15 minutes, to feed and drink.
While the female incubates, the male goose, known as the gander, remains vigilant nearby. He guards the nest from potential threats, including other animals and humans. This behavior protects the eggs and eventual goslings.
As hatching approaches, the goslings begin to break through their shells in a process that can take several hours for each egg. Upon hatching, goslings are precocial, meaning they are born relatively mature and mobile. They emerge covered in yellowish down, with their eyes open, and are capable of walking, swimming, and feeding themselves almost immediately. Within 24 hours, the parents lead goslings away from the nest to the nearest body of water for food and protection.