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Canada goose

The Canada goose is one of the most recognised geese in the UK and is notorious for the loud honking noise that it makes. As its name suggests, it originates from North America, where there are 11 sub-species.

A Canada goose standing on the bank

They can be seen throughout the UK and at all times of the year. Canada geese love water so lakes, reservoirs, canals and rivers are great places to spot them, as well as parks.

There are more than 82,000 adult Canada geese living in the UK.

The four smallest sub-species of Canada goose are now known as a different species altogether. They have been renamed the cackling goose.

Canada goose facts

Appearance: A large bird with a long black neck and head, and a white patch around its chin and cheeks. The body has dark brown feathers on top, which turn to coffee-colour further down and eventually cream on its breast.

Size: A large bird, 75–110 cm, with a wingspan of up to 1.8 metres

Weight: 3–9kg

Lifespan: Up to 25 years

Diet: Canada geese are vegetarians and feed on roots, grass, leaves and seeds

Family: Anatidae

Family nature guide 2019

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Identify footprints and read fascinating facts about the creatures who make their homes along our canals and rivers

Last Edited: 12 November 2020

photo of a location on the canals
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