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| p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · The Most Hated Bird in the World? - Part 2 | |
In this area, most Canada Geese build their nests at estuaries. However, with their increasing numbers and more urban development, they have to seek safer nesting locations. The first image shows the extremes one female went to in choosing an unused bald eagle nest for safety from predators. The eagles had not used that nest for a few years, and even though it was still one of their three nests in the area, they did not harass this goose for taking over their vacant home.
The nest was at least 100 feet above the ground. It was both sad and amusing when she first starting sitting in the nest, as her five or so one-year old youngsters still wanted to be with their mother. That proved very awkward for them because their large wings and webbed feet made it hard and dangerous to try and land next to their mother.
She used that nest for two consecutive years and the first or second day after hatching, she sat on the ground calling up to her chicks, and they all took the leap of faith, as one by one they jumped from the nest. Despite the distance, I only saw that one had a slightly injured leg from the fall, but it quickly healed. Both years, I missed this leap of faith by a few hours. 
Their light weight, flexible bodies, large leaves on the tree and ground, all helped to soften their landings. Once on the ground, the father goose helped the mother goose take the goslings to the nearby pond. Once there, the parents would have to protect them from being killed by otters, mink, hawks, eagles, and even heron.
The 4th image shows her checking out the second eagle nest that she chose not to use.
#6 & #7 shows a White-fronted Goose hanging out with the Canada's.
The last image shows how agile they can be while flying, by 'whiffling', which is flipping upside-down. It is said they do this maneuver to slow their decent when travelling too fast for a nearby landing. Sometimes I think they are just having fun.
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