Canada Goose
A common waterbird best observed near public water, not invited onto a residential lawn or small yard.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Look on lakes, ponds, rivers, park lawns, farm fields, and shorelines with open water nearby.
Food
Grass, aquatic vegetation, seeds, berries, waste grain, and other plant food gathered on land and water.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
Canada Goose habitat
Lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, shorelines, fields, and large lawns close to water.
Canada Goose diet and food
Grass, aquatic vegetation, seeds, berries, waste grain, and other plant food gathered on land and water.
Do not feed geese or maintain lawn-to-water edges that invite large resident flocks.
Canada Goose nesting and breeding
Nests on the ground near water, sometimes on raised sites; give adults and goslings a wide berth.
Canada Goose behavior and where to look
Grazes in groups, swims in open water, and migrates in V formations; urban flocks may remain year-round.
Photography
Observe from a shoreline distance and never block a flock’s route to water.
What to avoid
Do not hand-feed, approach goslings, or create artificial food sources that increase conflict and waste.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
