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Post by JeffOver on Nov 28, 2007 13:00:08 GMT -8
The past two days, most notably today, there has been large numbers of geese flying around and landing in the field behind our place. We've lived here about 4 1/2 years now, and this is the first time I've seen this many geese at this area. My estimate would be at least 500. Would anybody have any guesses as to why this year as opposed to others? --Jeff
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Post by Gord on Nov 29, 2007 13:23:07 GMT -8
Jeff, Im not quite sure. If I know that area, that field has had corn stubble on it for several seasons.
There is certainly no less Canada Geese in the area. But why they'd show up after 4+ years is interesting.
Cackling geese though. WOW! Everywhere I look I see them either in good sized flocks or one or two mixed in with Canada Geese. There is no doubt in my mind that their numbers have increased hugly in the area. This morning a flock flew over my house with one Cackler in with the Canada. It looked like a Mallard next to the big guys. Must have been a minima sub species of Cackling Goose.
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Post by JeffOver on Nov 29, 2007 16:43:35 GMT -8
Hmmm...Gord, I think you hit something there. Actually, since I've been here, the field has only been used for corn for two years. Before that, it was unused, a lot of "weeds." I think the farmer started working it two years ago in the fall. They planted winter wheat then, and the following spring I saw the long-billed curlews before they planted corn. Last fall, they again planted winter wheat after the corn. This fall, however, they have not done that, but rather have left it bare. So, this is the first time since I've lived here that the corn stubble has remained over the winter--perhaps that has something to do with it? As for Canada Geese vs Cackling Geese, I haven't tackled those yet! --Jeff
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