This time of year the Canada Geese, Branta canadensis, are making themselves comfortable on the farm. They are native, year round habitants of North America, but fly to Canada and northern latitudes of the United States for breeding during the winter. In the mornings and evenings they can be found congregating in the small beaver pond on the northern edge of the farm. They share this wet real-estate with other aquatic species, primarily the Mallard, Anas platyrhynchos. The geese are a monogamous species and begin reproduction in the second year of their lives. They have been known to make nests around and on beaver lodges as safe havens near open water. Maybe we can expect to see some nests being built on the lodge here. We’ll have to keep an eye out for nests and eggs! Goslings would make a nice addition to the Hull Springs Farm wildlife diversity. 

Canada Geese (Branta canadensis)