Territorial Canada Geese Battle it Out

As I was taking photos of a Pied-billed Grebe feasting on a Crayfish yesterday, I was taken aback when a commotion broke out between two Canada Geese at Miner’s Cove in Oklahoma’s Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge. The sound of their squawking and their wings flapping against the water was amazing.

Geese are known to be territorial creatures, and they fiercely guard their nesting sites and feeding grounds. These two pairs of Geese at Miner’s Cove were likely competing for resources, such as food or nesting space. When one pair encroached on the other’s territory, a fight broke out.

Geese fights are not uncommon, and they can be quite brutal. During a fight, the Geese will flap their wings, honk loudly, and bite each other with their beaks. The fights usually end when one of the Geese backs down and retreats.

While it can be entertaining to watch Geese fights, it’s important to remember to keep a safe distance and avoid interfering. Geese are wild animals, and they can be aggressive when they feel threatened. It’s best to observe them from a distance and appreciate their natural behavior.

Overall, witnessing the Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) intense fight at Miner’s Cove was an unforgettable experience. It’s fascinating to see these birds in their natural habitat, interacting with each other and vying for resources.

Gear Used:

• Camera: Canon EOS R7
• Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
  

Technical:

I was photographing the Geese from inside my pickup. I had a beanbag draped over the open window to support my camera and lens

• Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
• Date and Time Taken: March 10, 2023 (09:58 A. M.)
• Exposure Mode: Manual
• Aperture: f8
• Shutter speed: 1/3200
• ISO: 2000 (Auto)
• Focal Length: 500 mm

Unique Facts About Canada Geese Fighting Each Other:

1. Canada Geese are known to be quite territorial, and will often fight with each other over space and resources.
2. Male Canada Geese are particularly aggressive during mating season, as they will defend their mates and nesting sites from other males.
3. Canada Geese have been known to use their wings, bills, and even their bodies as weapons during fights.
4. Fights between Canada Geese can be quite violent and can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones or lacerations.
5. In some cases, Canada Geese will engage in “mobbing” behavior, where multiple geese will gang up on a single individual, often resulting in a fight.
6. Canada Geese are known to be quite vocal during fights, with both males and females honking loudly to intimidate their opponents.
7. Geese fights can last for several minutes, and may continue until one of the combatants retreats or is forced to flee.
8. Canada Geese fights are most common during the breeding season, but can occur at any time of the year if resources are scarce or if territorial disputes arise.