Canada Goose Pair
There is no more common and known waterfowl species than the Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) for most of us year-round, but even this bird, seen as a pest by some as they soil parks and cover golf courses, must live and breed. This is a pair at a local pond that was likely about to nest. They really have a handsome look to them, if you stop to take it in…and I appreciate them! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreSnow Goose (Chen caerulescens)
I recently spotted this odd-looking periscope coming out of the…grass of a golf course. As it came out of the green it revealed itself as a blue/dark morph, or “Blue Goose” Snow Goose (Chen caerulescens). The Snow Goose has rapidly increased in abundance in the last few decades in part due to their ability to use farm fields and other agricultural areas. This is another case of how easy it is for the species, along with the Canada Goose, to find a place to hang out thanks to the intensely manicured golf course. These are the same reasons why it seems silly to me to keep...
Read MoreTundra Swans
Chautauqua Lake provides an excellent feeding ground for a number of migrating ducks, swans and geese throughout the cooler months. Just yesterday, over 200+ Tundra Swans filled Bemus Bay along with numerous Canada Geese and Mallard ducks. These large and beautiful swans captured the attention of several lake-side residents as they belted out their high pitched honks while feeding on the abundant vegetation within the shallows of the lake. As winter progresses more waterfowl will make their way to the Great Lakes and Chautauqua Lake to reach needed food resources after their long trips from...
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