Louisiana is a great place to go birding, especially if you’re interested in geese. There are many different types of geese that can be found in the Bayou State, and each has its own unique characteristics. In this guide, we will provide an overview of the most common types of geese found in Louisiana, as well as some tips on where to find them.
What Geese Species are in Louisiana
There are six species of goose in Louisiana:
- Snow goose (also called blue goose).
- Ross's goose
- Greater white-fronted goose
- Cackling goose
- Canada goose
- Brant
Download FREE Geese & Swans in Louisiana ID Sheet PDF
Geese & Swans in Louisiana ID Sheet
Blue geese are actually snow geese, just a colour variation.
There are two species of this in Louisiana, with the second being a sub species the Branta canadensis maxima or the giant Canada goose.
Where Can you Find Geese in Louisiana
In Louisiana, geese may be found virtually everywhere, barring the southern section of the state.
During the winter months, vast numbers of ducks and geese gather in the marshes of Louisiana, creating the greatest concentration of waterfowl anywhere on the North American continent.
However, both the number and quality of the 3.5 million acres of coastal marshes in Louisiana, which are essential habitats for waterfowl, are on the decline. Each year, the state loses around 25,000 acres of coastal marshland (conversion to more saline marshes).
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife Service has issued a Conservation Order for Goose season to try and get the numbers under control. The number one nuisance calls they deal with are Geese on golf courses or fertilized lawns causing issues, causing issues for owners of the property (see our guide to Getting Rid Of Geese Off Your Property.
Are There Resident Geese Flocks in Louisiana
Yes, there are large flocks of resident Canada geese and Snow Geese. Whilst these are migratory birds, they are now residing year-round in the state, and their large and growing populations are causing issues!
They begin nesting in urban areas, and adult birds now number in the thousands. During nesting season a male goose can be very aggressive to humans who venture near their nest. A female goose will lay eggs in urban settings now and extensive goose droppings on parks and golf courses can cause serious issues.
Can You Hunt Geese in Louisiana
Geese, like many waterfowl, are protected under the Migratory bird treaty act however, hunters with the appropriate licenses can hunt geese and ducks in the hunting season, you can find all the regulations and apply for permits here.
Along with the neighboring states of Texas, Arkansas, and Mississippi have each designated the month of September as the beginning of their respective shooting seasons for wild Canada geese.