Not long ago, the appearance of geese in a neighborhood pond was unusual. So rare were these birds, whose populations had been decimated by human exploitation, that the mere sight of one was cause to celebrate. Now, however, Canada geese are considered problems in many communities, and feelings have turned against them. My photo buddy Darlene and I spend many lunch hours at the pond in Summer Grove. Ignoring the sign that implores park visitors to refrain from feeding the geese, we secret in bits of stale bread or bagels in order to lure them closer to our cameras. Imagine our excitement last week when we spotted two adults and their three yellow goslings. During the second year of their lives, Canada Geese find a mate. They are monogamous, and most couples stay together all of their lives. If one is killed, the other may find a new mate. Humans should take note of this.
The doting parents will protect and nurture their tiny goslings until fall. Then the young birds will migrate with their parents so that they may learn the traditional migratory patterns. In the meantime they will provide hours of photography material for our practice.
Click on the photo below to view a slideshow of more baby pictures. Say "Cheese"!
8 comments:
Spring is a wonderful time to celebrate new life, whether duckings or new babies, we find life everywhere. You are quite the fabulous photographer. Ever consider this your second career?
Nah, I'm not good enough. I am reminded by Pete not to quit my day job. However, I have tons of fun practicing. Thanks much for the compliment. Are you a grandmother yet???
I love those fat little chicks. How can you go back to work after watching those little guys. I could sit all day and look. You guys have great places to take pictures. Keep up the good work.
AWEEEEEEEEEEE how sweet. There is a huge pond in Niagara Falls that I went to this winter and got pictures of tons of ducks. I must go back and get some photos of the babies. GREAT job!!! Keep taking those nature photos. They are beautiful!
Have a splendiferous day!
Way too cute. But I have to ask...what's up with the freaky orange beaked dude? Everything I read on Canada geese says the two sexes are supposed to look alike. Please tell me that's not the mama goose. Female birds always get shafted in the looks department. Beautiful pictures though...keep up the good work mom!
The greyish goose with the orange beak is the father. Momma is a Canadian goose. The gagle of geese migrate to the same pond every year. I have photos of the dad from last season. He is very protective of Momma and their babies.
Oh my gosh, how absolutely adorable!!! Beautiful shots, too. How the heck do you catch such perfect moments?! Amazing. :)
Very cool. Really nice shots !
And no......you cannot adopt the goslings. Unless they are into Margaritas, they will not do well in our 'pond'.
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