N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission > Learning > Species > Birds

Canada Goose

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

Additional Information

Overview
Seasons
& Limits
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& Reports
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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	Season Dates	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)