North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Search

Learning  >  Species  >  Birds  >  Canada Goose

Canada Goose

Scientific Name: Branta canadensis
Classification: Game Species
Abundance: Common throughout state


(Photo: Mark Buckler)

Species Profile (pdf)

Coexisting With Canada Geese (pdf)

           
 

Additional Information

With its characteristic “honk”, widespread breeding distribution and ability to adapt to suburban environments, the Canada goose is likely the most recognized waterfowl species in North Carolina. Although similar in appearance, Canada geese can be divided into 11 subspecies partially based on body size, subtle differences in coloration and breeding distribution. Although most sub-species or populations are migratory in nature, populations of non-migratory Canada geese have been increasing in North Carolina and elsewhere over the last 20 years.

To learn more about the Canada Goose, view the species profile and click on the other tabs on this page.

 

Species

2017-18
Season
Dates

2017-18
Regulations
 

Additional Information
Waterfowl - General

(includes ducks, geese, swans and youth waterfowl days) 		Seasons / Limits

Youth Waterfowl Day(s)

Extended Falconry Seasons
  		Migratory Game Birds – State Regulations (PDF) 

Migratory Game Birds – Summary of Federal Regulations (PDF)


 Additional Info (including license requirements, non-toxic shot requirements, baiting information and various reports)
Canada Goose Seasons / Limits Migratory Game Birds – State Regulations (PDF) 

Migratory Game Birds – Summary of Federal Regulations (PDF)


 Canada Goose Hunt Zone Map (PDF)

NE Goose Hunt Zone Permits (PDF)

Additional Info (including license requirements, non-toxic shot requirements, baiting information and various reports)
 Light Goose Seasons / Limits  Migratory Game Birds – State Regulations (PDF) 

Migratory Game Birds – Summary of Federal Regulations (PDF)


  Light Goose Conservation Season Permit Information
Tundra Swan
  		Seasons / Limits
  		Migratory Game Birds – State Regulations (PDF) 

Migratory Game Birds – Summary of Federal Regulations (PDF)


 Tundra Swan Permit information (PDF)

Additional Info (including license requirements, non-toxic shot requirements, baiting information and various reports)

 

 

Harvest Survey of North Carolina Hunters

 

 

Movements and Arrival Dates

Please report all bands online at  www.reportband.gov

Please be aware that starting July, 2017, the toll-free telephone number that had previously been available to report bird bands is being discontinued.  This discontinuation is collectively due to past problems with accurate data recording, high rates of dropped calls and budget cuts.  People calling this toll-free number will be directed to report their bird bands using the REPORTBAND website or by mail.  We rely heavily on your cooperation in reporting banded birds to help in their management, and we would like to thank you for your continued support in this effort.