Thankfully, I've never had a close encounter with a Canada goose, though I did a tussle with a turkey when I was a kid. The geese that hang out around here, especially on the beach, are fairly docile if you give them their space. If you get too close to them or their young, then they'll give you a warning look or honk. Very civilized.
For round #235 of the Show me a photo contest, I decided to focus on these big birds who are a common sight around the city, particularly during the warm season (though some reside all year round).
In summer, there's a close harmony between the half naked humans and the feathered gang on the sand. It's humorous to see them approach in a group then scatter among the humans and chill on the beach to watch the sunset, as if it was the most normal thing in the world.
The Canada Goose can grow to a length of 2.25-3.5ft (55-75cm) with a wingspan of 4.25-5ft (1.3-1.5m) (Bird, 2016). It's actually the most widespread goose and 12 subspecies have been identified.
While this post is about big birds, let's start small.
Crossing the road is sometimes necessary on foot, and in this case with plenty of young ones in tow, the adults carried out traffic and crossing duties, as shown below.
It is fascinating how the adults spread themselves out among the gaggle and are in charge of certain smaller groups, bringing them back into the fold if any young one wanders off.
This following bird was deep in thought, so I decided not to get too close.
He (or she) seems like a loner, but he was part of a small group hanging around there doing nothing but enjoying the summer. I know that I shouldn't anthropomorphize, but just take a look at this picture. Doesn't it look like they're just having a picnic in that park?
I chose this last image for the contest because it shows their size, grace, and urban dwellings. I heard them honking from a distance and fumbling with my phone, I raised it just in time to capture them overhead in flight.
Do you have a favourite?
Thank you for visiting.
Resources
Bird, David (Ed). 2016. Pocket Birds of Canada.
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Images by @litguru