Cackling Goose

Description: Recently recognized as a separate species from Canada goose, these birds differ from Canadas in that they are slightly smaller and have a rounder head, a shorter neck, and a shorter, stubbier bill. The head and neck are black with white cheeks that extend under the throat like a chin strap. The body and wings range from brown to gray; the rump is white. Two of the four recognized subspecies, which differ slightly in size and coloring, have white rings at the base of the neck. Cackling geese vary in size depending upon subspecies. Average size: 23-33 inches. Average weight: 3-5 pounds.

Science: Cackling geese breed in northern and western Alaska, the Aleutians, and the arctic regions of northern Canada, using costal tundra areas. Birds begin their fall migration when the water starts to freeze and fly in family groups, often joining other groups and Canada geese to form large flocks. They winter in select parts of the Pacific Northwest, California’s central valley, the southern Great Plains, and the western Gulf Coast region of the United States and Mexico. They feed mostly on grasses, alfalfa, grains, and clover in the morning and late afternoon and spend the remainder of the day on the water. Their call is a similar honk to that of the Canada goose but is higher pitched. The population is thought to be stable.

Hunting: Cackling geese are usually taken incidentally by hunters seeking Canada geese. The eating quality is good: they have a mild flavor, but can be tough.