This is the most common goose in North America. They are large water birds (22 to 40 inches long) that can easily be seen and heard around most ponds and lakes in the US, including our campus Lake Herrick. They have white breasts and underside; long black necks; black bill and tail; brownish wings and back; and black bill, legs and webbed feet. These geese usually nest near the waters edge and will defend both their nest and territory from invaders by hissing and biting. They often fly in groups that forms a 'V' shaped pattern. They can be heard 'honking' to each other as they pass overhead.

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Wildlife Guide Introduction

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