If you’re a fan of nature, then you’ll love this guide to the different American geese species in Tennessee! In this guide, we will discuss where to find geese in Tennessee, what they eat, and how they interact with humans.
What type of geese are in Tennessee?
There are generally 5 types of Geese found in Tennessee, and two types of swans.
- Canada Goose
- Snow Goose
- Cackling Goose
- Ross's Goose
- Greater White-fronted Goose
This is a similar list to the geese in neighboring Alabama and the same geese types in Arkansas, however, Georgia only have 2 types of geese whilst Mississippi Geese generally don’t have the Cackling goose.
Download FREE PDF ID Sheet of Geese & Swans in Tennessee
Geese & Swans in Tennessee ID Sheet
Canada Goose in Tennesse
The Canada geese are the only resident birds, who are known to breed in Tennessee. Breeding birds can be found nesting and reproduction in Middle and East Tennessee but are rare in West Tennessee. They have a common status in Tennessee.
Snow Goose in Tennesse
The Snow Goose is a common winter bird found across Tennessee, especially on state and federal waterfowl refuges in the western part. The snow goose is often called a blue goose due to its wings, but is notable by its white head.
Cackling Goose in Tennessee
The cackling goose is a rare winter bird visitor across the Tennessee state typically found in flocks of Canada Geese.
Ross's Goose in Tennessee
The Ross’s Goose is a beautiful bird that can be seen all across Tennessee. You’ll find them along the Mississippi River Valley in winter and Reelfoot Lake.
Greater White-fronted Goose in Tennessee
The best place to find these in Tennessee is at one of the federal wildlife refuges, such as Reelfoot Lake and Britton Ford Unit of Tennessee NWR as they feast on the aquatic vegetation.
Fun facts about the Greater White Fronted goose is that they mate for life and will often be found in flocks of other species of geese. The american ornithologists union has classified the Greater White Fronted goose as least concern.
Can you hunt geese in Tennessee?
Yes, though you will need a hunting licence and be aware of the hunting season and bag limits. All the up-to-date Tennessee geese hunting regulations can be found here.
Where are geese most commonly found in Tennessee
While geese can be found all over the state, there are certain areas where they are more commonly seen. In East Tennessee, geese can often be seen at Douglas Lake and Cherokee Lake. In Middle Tennessee, Percy Priest Lake is a good spot for bird watching. And in West Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake is a popular destination for both geese and bird watchers alike!
Take Away on Geese Species in Tennessee
Geese are fascinating creatures that can be found all over Tennessee. In this guide, we have discussed their habits and where to find them. We have also provided some fun facts and a free printable checklist of the birds. A complete list of which birds of North America can be found in Birds of Tennessee, by Tennessee press.