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Canada Goose by Rob Miller

Canada Goose

Branta canadensis

© Canada Goose by Rob Miller

Key Facts

  • Length: 55-100cm
  • Wingspan: 1.6m
  • Weight: 4.6kg
  • Average Lifespan: 6 years

The Canada goose is our largest goose and maybe our most familiar. They are a common bird across most of the country, nesting on park lakes, flooded gravel pits and reservoirs. Canada geese are not native to this country, having been introduced from North America about 300 years ago. After the Second World War, they spread across the UK, becoming pests in some areas because they congregate in large numbers and can cause damage.

How to Identify

The Canada goose is a large goose, with a black neck and head, grey-brown back and white cheek patches.

Where to Find

Found almost throughout the country, except the north of Scotland.

Did you know?

Canada geese were first introduced to the UK in St. James’s Park, London, in the 17th century. Today, the population numbers 62,000 breeding pairs.

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