Canada goose

Branta canadensis

General information. The Canada goose is a game bird originally imported to Europe from North America. It was first introduced in Finland during the 1960’s and the first nesting Canada geese in the Kvarken region were observed at the end of the 1980’s. Today, the Canada goose is a common sight in Vaasa city parks as well as along the shoreline. During summers, flocks of geese in proximity to beaches are considered obtrusive due to their waste and in many areas various repellents have been utilized to drive the geese away.

• Length about 100 cm
• Nests on the ground
• Migrates for winter to the southern regions of the Baltic Sea
• Feeds on green vegetation, grain, insects and snails

Habitat. The Canada goose nests on small skerries and islands in secluded coves. After breeding season is over, the birds gather in flocks and can be seen in city parks foraging on grass and clover.

Distribution in Vaasa. During the survey, the Canada goose was found nesting predominately in the outer- and middle archipelago. It was observed in about 25 locations. The nesting population is estimated to grow in the coming years.