Canada Geese

Canada Geese. . , Canada geese assemble at Dead Creek from many locations within eastern North America. They are attracted to this management area because of the protection offered by the refuge and the excellent combination of forage fields and water. Fall concentrations of geese here are the largest to be found within the Champlain Valley region of Vermont., Early spring finds migrant birds resting here as they fly from their wintering grounds in the Chesapeake Bay region to their ancestral breeding areas in northern Quebec. This period also heralds the return of our local breeding population which winters in coastal New Jersey and nests at Dead Creek., Breeding efforts by the local flock are usually well under way in late March when mated pairs can be seen establishing their nesting territories. Nesting occurs in April through early May when the female (goose) carefully incubates her clutch of 5-6 eggs for 28 days while the male (gander) dutifully guards the site against intruders. The peak of hatching occurs in mid to late May at which time the fuzzy youngsters (goslings) leave the nest to be cared for by both parents., The fall period (October 1 through November 15) is the best time to observe large concentrations of Canada geese here. During this time, flocks of migrants from northern breeding areas join their local kin to rest and feed on corn and green forage crops, replenishing energy reserves needed for the southward migration., The Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area provides a quality environment for Canada geese which, in turn, creates excellent recreational opportunities for all who enjoy these magnificent waterfowl.