If you're a birder, you'll know what a life list is. It's basically a list of all the bird species one has observed and positively ID'd in one's lifetime. This blog is a record of my "critter" life list (mostly of birds), including photos I've taken over the years, some of the actual lifer if I was lucky enough to get the shot. Don't expect National Geographic quality stuff here, just the work of an amateur photog who loves to trudge out into nature.

Friday, November 6, 2015

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)

10/21/02 Spooner Lake (east of Lake Tahoe), Toiyabe National Forest, 
Washoe County, Nevada
Spooner Lake

7/4/05 Dorris Reservoir, Modoc National Wildlife Refuge, Modoc County, CA

May 2004 Los Angeles County Arboretum, Arcadia, CA 
5/7/04 Los Angeles County Arboretum 
May 2004 Los Angeles County Arboretum
7/3/05 Causeway over Goose Lake, Modoc County, CA
  
 6/8/17 Hyde Park, London, UK
The Serpentine Lake, Hyde Park, London, UK 
The Serpentine Lake, Hyde Park, London, UK 

LIFE LIST NOTES:

COMMON NAME: Canada Goose

SPECIES: Branta canadensis

FAMILY: Anatidae (Ducks, Geese & Swans)

LIFE LIST DATE: 4/27/2002

LOCATION: Sizable flock observed with goslings feeding on lawn at Los Angeles County Arboretum, Arcadia, CA

From Kaufman Focus Guide: Birds of North America:

BEHAVIOR/HABITAT: Common and familiar, and becoming more so. Once known mainly as a wilderness bird, the "honker" is adapting to life on golf courses and city parks, extending its year-round range. Many of these new feral flocks are permanent residents; northern wild flocks still migrate, flying in lines or V-formation. 

IDENTIFYING MARKS: 23"-45"; Basic pattern unmistakeable, with white chinstrap on black head and neck. Different populations vary greatly in size and vary in body color (from white-chested to very dark). The smallest forms (no bigger than mallards) might represent a different species, sometimes called "Cackling Goose."

VOICE: Varies from deep musical honking (larger races) to higher gabbling or cackling (smaller races). 
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