Steve's Video Of The Day: "Canada Goose!"

Canada Goose. "Branta Canadensis". The "Inuktitut" call it "Uluagullik". Spring and Fall are defined in Canada by the departure and return stop-overs of the Canada Goose. Millions fly north every year to the tundra, and return south in the Fall, feeding on Wild Rice and grain from farmer's fields. You wouldn't know it to look around today, but the Canada Goose was once an uncommon bird. In particular, the subspecies known as the giant Canada Goose was considered extinct until a few remnant populations were discovered in the early 1960's. Over-hunting and destruction of wetlands had driven them to the brink. Improved game management practices and extensive re-introduction programs were begun to stabilize the subspecies and today it is doing fine. Originally a North American bird, the Canada Goose has also been transplanted successfully to Britain and Scandinavia. A 1991 census recorded 63,581 in the United Kingdom.

Depending on who you talk to, there are up to eleven subspecies of Canada Goose. The largest is the "Giant", with a wingspan of 6 feet and weighing up to 30 pounds. Among North American waterfowl, only the swans are larger.

Something that has been known for years about the Canada Goose is that they are powerful aviators, flying numerous miles (sometimes over 600 miles per day) in weather and wind to reach their destination. A recently revealed phenomena about the Canada Goose is that they are also "aerial artists", able to reveal their inner-self through spectacular displays of "atmospheric ballet". Hey, I am serious, just watch!

VIDEO - "Canada Goose!"

AUDIO - "Honk! Honk!"

WEB-SITE - Bird Facts: Canada Goose!