Canada goose: animal pest alert

Page last updated: Tuesday, 17 October 2017 - 9:00am

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This animal pest alert provides information on the identification, biology, and pest potential of the Canada goose in Australia.

Introduction

The Canada goose (Branta canadensis) is not indigenous to Australia but it is kept here as an exotic waterfowl species and has recently been found in the wild in two states. It is an invasive species which has established populations in many countries including New Zealand. It poses an extreme threat to Australia with significant potential to establish wild populations here and become a pest, so it is important to immediately report any in the wild.

Description

The form of Canada goose found in Australia and New Zealand is a moderate to large bird 55-100cm in length (body and tail), with a wingspan of 122-183cm, and weighing 3-6kg. It is brown and white with a conspicuous white patch on the cheeks and chin and a long black neck and head. The bill, tail, legs and feet are also black. Male, female and immature birds are similar although immature plumage is more greyish and the white face-patches are often tinted brown.

The Canada goose swims with its neck held upright. It flies (in groups in striking V formation) with neck outstretched and often with loud honking. It is easily identified from below by its black neck, white face-patch, pale belly and dark underwings. It also has a white V-shaped mark on the rump, visible from above and when the bird is taking off.

Mistaken identity

In Australia, the Canada goose may be mistaken for large indigenous or other introduced waterfowl. However, the combination of its long black neck and head, distinctive white face-patch and honk will set it apart from:

  • Magpie Goose (northern Australia)
  • Cape Barren goose (southern coastal Australia including Tasmania)
  • Australian Shelduck (Western Australia and south-eastern Australia)
  • Domestic Goose (all states and territories).

Contact information

Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS)
+61 (0)8 9368 3080