Downtown Waterfront

0.5 km Marker

The Canada Goose

Canada goose · Bernache du Canada · Nika


Canada geese on the St. Marys River. Photo: NORDIK Institute, 2015

Along with the maple leaf flag, the Canada goose is one of our country’s most recognized symbols. It has a black head and neck, with white patches on the face, and the body is brown. The scientific name for the Canada goose is Branta Canadensis. It is one of the most popular known birds in North America. Geese are adaptable to many habitats and can thrive wherever grasses, grains, or berries are found. They are social birds that remain in flocks year-round, except when nesting.


Natural Environment and Outdoor Studies

Challenge Yourself!

  • Test your knowledge

  • Question 1

    How many eggs do Canadian Geese typically lay?


  • Question 2

    How many days would it take for a Canada Goose to fly around the world?


  • Question 3

    What shape is often associated with Canadian Geese?


  • Question 4

    What two sounds do Canadian Geese make when they are happy and when they are angry?


  • You did great!