The Annual Migration Cycle
Canadian geese are a familiar waterbird across North America. Many populations undertake seasonal journeys, moving between northern breeding grounds and southern wintering areas. This migratory behavior allows them to access abundant food sources and suitable habitats throughout the year. However, not all Canadian geese migrate.
Canadian geese migrate to find rich feeding and breeding grounds in northern regions during warmer months and milder weather conditions in the south for winter. They travel twice a year. Spring migration typically occurs from late February or early March through May, as they move from their wintering sites in the United States to breeding areas in Canada and Alaska. Fall migration sees them return southward, beginning as early as August and peaking in September and October, though some may arrive at their southernmost destinations by November.
These birds possess remarkable navigational abilities that guide them across vast distances. They use environmental cues, including landmarks such as rivers, coastlines, and mountain ranges. Canadian geese also rely on celestial navigation, orienting themselves using the sun’s position during the day and stars at night. An internal magnetic compass allows them to detect the Earth’s magnetic field and maintain a consistent direction.
Young geese learn migration routes by following their parents and other experienced members of the flock. During their journeys, Canadian geese often fly in a V-formation, which helps conserve energy by reducing wind resistance for the birds following behind. The lead bird rotates periodically, sharing the effort of facing the most air resistance.
These migratory flights can cover significant distances, with some populations traveling up to 1,500 miles in a single day, typically at speeds around 30 miles per hour, though they can reach 70 miles per hour with favorable winds. Flocks often make stops along their routes to rest and feed, replenishing energy for the remainder of their journey.
Understanding Resident Geese
While many Canadian geese exhibit strong migratory instincts, a growing number of populations have become “resident,” meaning they remain in one general area throughout the year. This shift is particularly noticeable in urban and suburban environments. Resident geese stay due to a consistent availability of resources, diminishing their need to undertake long migrations.
Human activity is a significant factor contributing to the rise of resident populations. Manicured lawns, golf courses, parks, and agricultural fields provide abundant, year-round food sources, such as grasses and waste grains. Urban and suburban settings also tend to have a reduced presence of natural predators, which enhances the survival rates of geese. Milder winters in some regions mean that open water bodies remain unfrozen for longer periods, allowing geese to stay comfortably.
Resident geese also stem from historical efforts to restore their populations. Geese bred in captivity and later released into the wild were not taught traditional migration routes by their parents. Consequently, their offspring do not learn these migratory patterns, leading to generations of non-migratory birds.
Unlike their migratory counterparts, resident geese tend to be less wary of humans and are more accustomed to living in close proximity to developed areas. While resident geese typically move only short distances, they may travel a few hundred miles during severe weather to find open water and food. The increasing numbers of resident Canadian geese have led to concerns in some communities, often related to excessive droppings and noise.