Migrating Canadian Geese Arrive at White Rock Lake

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Today, some migrating Canadian Geese arrived at White Rock Lake in Dallas, TX, a temporary resting stop on their long journey northward. These huge, attractive wild geese have a black head with a white “chinstrap,” black neck, and large black webbed feet with a brownish-gray body.

A pair of Canada Geese perched on a log in Sunset Bay

The visitors were not exactly welcomed by the permanently resident Chinese Geese, who constantly tried to chase off the Canada Geese. Unfortunately for the local fat, overfed waterfowl the tough-looking visitors were quite aggressive when they needed to be, and not intimidated by the local geese.

A pair of Canadian Geese resting under a shady tree at Sunset Bay
White Rock Lake

The Canada Goose, Branta Canadensis, is native to arctic and temperate regions of North America. They breed in Canada and the northern United States, and are mainly herbivores. Their diet includes green vegetation and grains.

 A visiting Canada Goose strolls along the water's edge at Sunset Bay

During the second year of their lives, Canada Geese look for a mate.  They are monogamous, and most couples stay together for their entire lives.

 A lone Canada Goose beside a pool of water

Canada Geese are often recognized by the famous V-formation when flying in a flock.

 

Canadian Geese taking in the panoramic view of White Rock Lake

Canada Geese are protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Act of 1918. In terms of this Act, it is illegal to harm or injure a goose (or damage or move its eggs) without a Federal permit.

Canadian Geese swimming in Sunset Bay, White Rock Lake 

Waterfowl love Sunset Bay because it is sheltered. It is officially classified as a wetland, and harbors an array of colorful ducks and other water fowl. 

Cooling off on a hot day, this Canada Goose looks at home
in Sunset Bay, White Rock Lake

White Rock Lake in Dallas, Texas is on the migration route from Canada to Mexico.