There are several different types of geese that can be found in Virginia. We’ll take a closer look at some of the most common types of geese in our state.
So, if you’re ever lucky enough to see one of these beautiful creatures in the wild, you’ll know what you’re looking at!
What Geese Are in Virginia?
There are seven types of geese in Virginia.
- Canada Goose
- Snow Goose
- Ross's Goose
- Cackling Goose
- Greater White-Fronted Goose
- Barnacle Goose
- Brant
DOWNLOAD GEESE IN VIRGINIA ID CHART
Are There Any Resident Canada Geese In Virginia?
Canada geese are found in urban areas as well as in rural areas throughout Virginia.
In urban areas, resident geese can often be seen in parks, golf courses and along waterways.
In rural areas, they are typically found near lakes, ponds, and marshes.
Some of the counties where resident Canada geese are commonly seen include Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, King William County, Fairfax County, Lancaster County, Giles County, and Culpeper County.
While they may seem docile, these geese can become aggressive if they feel threatened. Additionally, they damage agricultural crops.
Can You Remove Canada Geese and Other Migratory Birds From Your Property in Virginia?
Many people enjoy the presence of Canadian geese on their property, but some find them to be a nuisance.
If you fall into the latter category, you may be wondering if it’s possible to remove both adult and baby geese from your property in Virginia.
The short answer is yes, but there’s a catch. According to federal law, resident Canada geese are still considered migratory birds, which means that anyone who wants to remove Canada geese from their property must first obtain a permit through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services.
This may seem like a hassle, but it’s actually a good thing. The permitting process helps to ensure that the Canada geese are removed in a humane and sustainable way.
You can also ask for assistance from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
Geese Hunting in Virginia
Hunting of waterfowl such as Canada geese in the state of Virginia is allowed, provided you have the correct license, permit and stamp which you can obtain from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
Can You Shoot a Goose in Virginia?
In Virginia, it is only legal to shoot geese with non-toxic shots that have been approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
These federal regulations are in place to protect wildlife populations from being unnecessarily harmed.
You also need to be aware of the correct daily bag and possession limits.
Where Can I Hunt Geese in VA?
Virginia’s eastern coast is a renowned hotspot for geese hunting. The Chesapeake Bay area, in particular, is home to large populations of Canada geese and snow geese.
Is There a Goose Hunting Season in Virginia?
The best time to hunt geese in Virginia is September to February. September and October are the best months for hunting early in the season, and November through February are the best months for hunting late in the season.
Conclusion on Geese in VA
If you’re ever in Virginia, be on the lookout for seven different types of geese.
While they may all look similar to some extent, they each have their own unique features and markings that make them stand out from the rest.
Who knows, you might even get a chance to see one of these rare geese up close.