ML646929283

Observation details

The CACG is very similar to the Canada Geese but much smaller in size, shorter neck, with a smaller and stubby bill. The CACG - L 25" W 3.5lb - is still a relatively large goose, and it is slightly larger than a Mallard Duck - L 23" W 2.4lb . When contrasted with CANG - L 45" W 9.8lb - the CACG is almost half the size of the CANG. The CACG sometimes has a slightly grayish sheen on the back. While the CACG has a distinctly stubby bill and shorter neck, when scanning a flock of CANG to find that one CACG, it is best to focus on the overall size difference which is stark. Then assess the other features. The CACG is rare in Virginia, and one or two of them maybe present in a large flock of CANG. Two CACG were found in this flock of CANG. Note also that there are some subspecies of CANG that are smaller in size approaching the size of a CACG.