If you’re a bird watcher, you know that Massachusetts is home to some pretty incredible geese. We take a look at the different types of geese that can be found in the state, as well as some of the best places to see them.
What Geese Are in Massachusetts?
There are four goose species and two swan species living in the state of Massachusetts.
- Canada Goose
- Snow Goose
- Cackling Goose
- Brant
Swans living in Massachusetts include Tundra Swan and Mute Swan.
DOWNLOAD GEESE IN MASSACHUSETTS ID CHART
Are There Any Resident Flocks of Geese in Massachusetts?
There are indeed resident flocks of geese in the state. However, these flocks are much smaller than the migrating populations that pass through in the spring and fall.
The most common goose species found in Massachusetts is the Canada goose, which can be seen in both urban and rural areas.
Hunting Geese in Massachusetts
In order to hunt geese in Massachusetts, you need to purchase a state waterfowl stamp and register with the Harvest Information Program (HIP).
ou can register for HIP by taking the HIP survey. The state waterfowl stamp will automatically register you for HIP.
Can You Shoot a Goose in Massachusetts?
Yes, you can shoot geese in Massachusetts, but there are some restrictions in place.
For example, you can only use a shotgun no larger than 10 gauge and it must be fired from the shoulder.
Additionally, shotguns that are capable of holding more than 3 shells must be plugged with a one-piece filler that limits the gun’s total capacity to 3 shells. This filler cannot be removed without disassembling the gun.
Finally, waterfowl hunters must use non-toxic shots while hunting ducks, geese, sea ducks, and coot. Lead shot is not allowed while hunting these birds.
Here’s Massachusetts’s daily bag and possession limits on geese:
Regular Goose (except Snow & Blue)
| Dates | Daily Bag | Possession | |
| Berkshire | Oct. 10 – Nov. 12 | 1 | 3 |
| Central | Oct. 10 – Nov. 26 Dec. 27 – Jan. 16 | 2 | 6 |
| Coastal | Oct. 15 – Oct. 22 Dec. 1 – Jan. 31 | 2 | 6 |
Early Canada Goose (Statewide)
| Dates | Daily Bag | Possession |
| Sep. 2 – Sep. 24 | 15 | 45 |
Late Canada Goose
| Dates | Daily Bag | Possession | |
| Berkshire | Dec. 15 – Feb. 15 | 5 | 15 |
| Central | Jan. 18 – Feb. 15 | 5 | 15 |
| Northern portion of Coastal Zone | Feb. 1 – Feb. 15 | 5 | 15 |
Snow & Blue Goose
| Dates | Daily Bag | Possession | |
| Berkshire | Oct. 10 – Nov. 26 Dec. 19 – Jan. 7 | 15 | 45 |
| Central | Oct. 10 – Nov. 26 Dec. 27 – Jan. 16 | 15 | 45 |
| Coastal | Oct. 15 – Oct. 22 Dec. 1 – Jan. 31 | 15 | 45 |
Where Can I Hunt Geese in Massachusetts?
Waterfowl hunting grounds in Massachusetts are divided into three hunting zones - Berkshire, Central and Coastal. You can check the map of waterfowl zones in Massachusetts here.
Conclusion on Geese in Massachusetts
If you’re ever in Massachusetts and you want to see some amazing wildlife, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for geese and swans! There’s a good chance you’ll see at least one of these beautiful creatures.