This handsome pair of Canada Geese appeared here without the rest of their migrating flock. Perhaps they’re social-distancing; perhaps they’re thinking of nesting locally. Canada Geese mate for life and usually nest in northern United States and Canada during late March through early May.
Once they do select a site, the female “goose” will build the nest and stay on it until her four to seven “goslings” hatch. Meanwhile, the male “gander” will protect her and the nest heroically, viciously attacking anything that gets near, including humans. Sometimes, that bravery means giving up his life when coyotes and wolves attack in packs.
Four to seven goslings usually are born in late April or May. These cuddly fuzz balls usually are swimming and diving deeply within 24 hours of birth. They’ll stay with their parents until the following spring migration.
(Brooklin, Maine)