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Bird Identification

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Canada Goose

Branta canadensis L 25-45" (64-114cm)

Photo by Maslowski Wildlife Productions.

Listen to a Canada goose.

For centuries the coming of fall was announced by high flying flocks of Canada geese heading south, the sonorous honking sound even non-birdwatchers know. In the past few decades they have become permanent residents and breeders across much of the US, favoring parks, community ponds, and golf courses, where they are often considered pests. The most common call, a loud, sometimes startling honk, is heard both from birds in flight and from birds on the ground. They can be found almost anywhere that the water remains unfrozen, feeding on grass and in farm fields. The most distinctive field mark is the black head and neck, setting off the bright white chin strap.

This sound file requires RealPlayer. Bird song courtesy of Lang Elliott, NatureSound Studio.

Wading Birds

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