Did you know that Oklahoma is home to a variety of geese species? In this definitive guide, we will discuss the different types of geese that can be found in the Sooner State, as well as their habits and preferred habitats.
What Type of Geese Are in Oklahoma?
There are five main types of geese species found in Oklahoma, though some of these have subspecies like the Giant Canada geese and the greater and lesser snow goose.
- Cackling Goose
- Canada Goose
- Greater White-fronted Goose
- Ross’s Goose
- Snow Goose
Download FREE printable Geese & Swans in Oklahoma ID Chart
Where Can you Find Geese in Oklahoma
Geese can be found throughout the state, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation state that they are usually found near bodies of water, lakes, ponds, wetlands and artificial water bodies. They have adapted well to urban areas including parks and golf courses.
Are There Resident Geese Flocks in Oklahoma
Yes there are resident canada geese flocks in Oklahoma, usually the giant Canada goose as these birds are less migratory than the other geese species. Migratory birds usually leave in early summer and return in November.
The resident flocks can be a nuisance if the geese are nesting on your property. You can call out authorised firms to relocate the geese and conduct nest control. Goose droppings can be hazardous (see Goose Droppings: Can Geese Carry Rabies?) and geese can be aggressive to humans if you get close to their nests.
There are several ways to discourage geese from your property (see our guide to getting rid of geese) and we strongly advise that you do not feed the geese (especially not bread!).
Can You Hunt Geese in Oklahoma
Yes, although geese are protected by the Migratory Bird treaty act, these migratory game birds make for great waterfowl hunting in the state. Goose hunting is allowed in the regular waterfowl season, as Oklahoma is part of the central flyway.
However to take part in the hunting season you need a permit, you can only shoot within the hunting season dates (which change each year and are detailed by the migratory bird coordinator), and you are limited to a daily bag limit and a possession limits. Check the different dates for zones 1 and 2 in the Panhandle counties. You can find the latest dates and bag limits here.
Shotgun hunting is allowed with a federally approved nontoxic shot and youth hunters have a reduced licence fee but must be accompanied by a hunter education certified adult who hunts waterfowl. Electronic bird calls are also permitted.
Many local hunting tours operate goose hunting in Texas and Oklahoma. Geese hunting in Arkansas also has similar dates and limits.