The cackling goose is a species of goose found in North America and East Asia.
Region
North America and East Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds on the Arctic tundra of northern Canada and Alaska, nesting on coastal plains, river deltas, and tundra islands. In winter it moves south to temperate regions, especially along the Pacific Coast, interior valleys, and parts of the Atlantic Coast. Small numbers also winter in East Asia, including the Aleutians and Japan. It uses wetlands, estuaries, bays, pastures, and agricultural fields, shifting between natural marshes and human-modified landscapes as food availability changes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Once considered conspecific with the Canada Goose, the cackling goose was split as a distinct species in 2004 and is noticeably smaller with a shorter neck and stubby bill. Its voice is a higher-pitched series of yelps or cackles, quite different from the deep honk of larger Canada Geese. Several subspecies vary in size and subtle plumage, and identification can be challenging where their ranges overlap.
B. h. minima on eggs
B. h. minima family
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats; forms V-shaped flocks
Social Behavior
Forms monogamous pairs that often remain together year-round and family groups that migrate together. Nests on the ground near water with a shallow bowl lined with down. Outside breeding season, gathers in sizable flocks, especially at feeding and roost sites.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A higher-pitched, rapid series of yelps and cackles rather than the deep honk of larger Canada Geese. Calls are sharp and carry well in flight, aiding flock cohesion.
