Happy Canada Day. There is one bird who sports their Canadian identity with pride more than any other: the Canada Goose. Now seen in abundance across North America, and considered a pest in some European countries where it was introduced, this patriotic animal was once on the brink of extinction before the 1916 Migratory Birds Convention between Canada and the USA. Not only did this convention help put in place protocol to protect necessary wetland habitat for the goose, it also coincided with the urbanization of much of our landscape. Turns out the herbivore Canada Goose thrive where humans chop down forests to make space for flat grass filled suburbs and cereal crop agriculture.

The distinguishable black mask of the long neck and head, with its white chin strap like a hockey helmet strap atop a big grey-brown body might seem instantly recognizable. However, there are actually seven subspecies of Canada Goose, and four Cackling Goose subspecies that all carry this look. All eleven strike fear into the hearts of wary humans who may have strayed too close to a nest at one point in their life. One of my most frightening wildlife encounters was while I was riding a bike in Fishcreek Provincial Park as a teenager. Two Canada Geese flew over my head in a tumbling mass of feathers and honks landing in front of my bike on the path to finish their territorial dispute. I slammed on my brakes and watched stunned by the ferocity of the fight unfolding 4 meters in front of me. One managed to free itself finally and flew off hurriedly whilst its loosed feathers were flung off with every flap. The victor turned its attention to me. It spread its wings wide arched its neck and hissed menacingly. I was in a face off with the mighty “Cobra Chicken” and the only thing I could think of to do was say how profusely sorry I was out loud. Perhaps this Canadian trope saved me that day as the goose (or more likely male gander) seemed satisfied and left.

I take a lesson of loyalty from the Canada Goose. They tend to pair with a mate as a yearling and remain steadfast to this bonded relationship until separated by death. There are stories of geese remaining with their injured mate until they pass during a migration. But this loyalty extends beyond their mate. They prefer to return to the same nest sites year after year. They also show a preference to use the same nesting material and nest foundation. If something is working why change it?

The Canada Goose stands out amoungst their waterfowl peers as having the greatest diversity of nest sites than any other species. Whether they raise their young in marshes, on cliffs, elevated platforms, muskegs, islands or tundra the versatile Canada Goose finds a way to make it work for their family, and still proudly defends its territory from outside threats. A wonderful representation of this beautiful country’s diversity and resilience.