Ava PhippsAugust 26, 2026Snake Rocks
Unkind Reputation
Big, hissing, aggressive: these are all descriptors used to describe the Canada goose. While many species of geese are docile, Canada geese are known for their aggressive nature, being very territorial and very vocal about it. Nicknamed “honkers”, these large birds migrate every winter in V shaped patterns, flying south toward warmer breeding grounds.
Subspecies
As you move north, Canada geese grow smaller in size, and as you move west, their plumage becomes darker. While these subgroups are often still considered the same species, the four smallest groups have now been recognized as distinct. The smallest, being the cackling goose, is half the size of the Canada goose, with half the temperament.
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