Geese Flying North in Northwest Washington: An Uncommon Sight Explained
Have you ever noticed a peculiar sight in the fall, where you see thousands of geese flying north instead of south? This is quite a common occurrence in Northwest Washington during the month of November. So, why are they doing this if winter is a time when most birds typically migrate to warmer southern areas?
Understanding Canadian Geese
The geese you are seeing are most likely Canadian Geese (Branta canadensis). The winters in Western Washington, especially in the northwest region, are far from harsh for these birds. While it may be wet, the lack of substantial snow cover means that food sources remain readily available. Unlike many other birds, Canadian Geese don’t typically migrate to avoid the cold weather but rather to take advantage of the food sources that are more abundant in certain areas.
Migration Patterns of Canadian Geese
The geese you observe might be flying in a northerly direction to or from their local food sources. In fact, a 20-mile round trip is nothing for a goose. These birds are known for their strong flying skills and their ability to navigate long distances without rest. This movement is not a full-scale migration but rather a local adaptation to the changing environmental conditions.
Contrasting with Traditional Migration Behavior
Some misconceptions about these geese flights might arise from the belief that they are participating in traditional migration. However, the behavior you’re seeing is simply geese moving between areas to forage or rest. What you are observing are local movements of geese within the region, between feeding and roosting locations. Migration often involves pauses for refueling, which is not necessary or common for these geese given the abundance of food and the mild winter conditions in Western Washington.
Non-Migratory Populations
Interestingly, some populations of Canadian Geese in Northwest Washington have adapted to a non-migratory lifestyle. Climate change and the enduring shifts in environmental conditions have led to some geese staying in the area year-round. This is due to the flush of vegetation such as duckweed and aquatic plants that continue to grow even in the winter months. While traditional migration patterns continue to exist, these non-migratory populations have become increasingly prevalent, leading to the observed phenomenon of geese flying north in this region.
Conclusion
So, the next time you see thousands of geese flying north in Northwest Washington, remember that these birds are simply making local adjustments to their feeding and resting patterns. The mild winter and abundant food sources in this area can make it unnecessary for them to migrate the traditional route. Understanding these nuances can help us appreciate the resilience and adaptability of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do Canadian Geese stay in Northwest Washington during the winter?
A: The mild winters and abundant food sources in Northwest Washington make it unnecessary for geese to migrate south. They can find plenty of sustenance year-round, especially from vegetation that continues to grow in the winter.
Q: Are all Canadian Geese migratory?
A: No, some populations of Canadian Geese, particularly those in Western Washington, have adapted to a non-migratory lifestyle due to the milder winters and availability of food.
Q: What do geese do when they migrate?
A: When birds do migrate, they often take long distances and make various stops along the way to refuel. However, in Northwest Washington, the geese you observe are likely just making local movements between feeding and resting areas.