A Morning with the Geese
I stop here most mornings. It’s along my route to work. I’ve always made it a point to be early, as I’d rather sit and wait for the day to start than rush my morning away. As such, I always save some time to sit with the geese.
With more than enough street parking, I waste no time and make my way to their home, just left of the “waterfall”.
This is the path that the family typically comes down. I sit at a bench just behind where I was standing when I shot this photo and I let them make their way over to me.
This is their launch. Once we’re acquainted for the day, I’ll usually sit near here on a rock and watch them come in and out of the water.
Welcome to the family! The two geese in front on the right side of the frame are goslings, although they are nearing full maturity. They came up this spring, and I‘ve been visiting most days since they started hopping around.
Here is most of the family for reference. There are five children in total, four of which are pictured. Their parents are on the left.
It should be noted that I never feed Canada Geese (or any waterfowl). These are wild animals that should not grow accustomed to gathering food from humans. Not only does this teach them (and their young) unrealistic feeding habits, but it also breeds aggression between the animals. Meal time turns from foraging to frenzy, and the young learn to fight for food.
A sample of feathers left behind from a morning feeding frenzy. I’ve seen people feed these geese before, and I do my best to convince them otherwise.
Goose in the river.
A moment to appreciate some other waterfowl.
Some scenes from the home of the geese. Please don’t throw garbage in the river.
Canada Geese are great animals. They are not mean, they are not aggressive, they are as protective as any other wild animal. There is a correct way to approach a Canada Goose. Remember, first of all, that these animals are prey. If you try to sneak up to them, they will know and they will not like it. Walk toward them at your normal pace. Talk to them. Announce yourself. Sit down near them and wait. They will come to you if they want to. Be respectful and enjoy the geese.