It is almost impossible to take a good portrait of a group of youngsters, irrespective of species—they are invariably energetic and inquisitive, almost incapable of simultaneously looking at the camera.
Yesterday I encountered a family of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) as I walked down a path at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. They too were strolling down the path, stopping to peck at the vegetation along the way. When they became aware of my presence, they slowly made their way to the water’s edge and slipped into the water.
The cute little goslings had already learned their lessons well and stayed in a tight little group right behind one of their parents. Once they had paddled a little way from shore, the babies, however, seemed to lose their focus and started to wander a bit. The adult in the rear of the little group, though, helped to bring them back into line as they silently swam away.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Pretty cute, Mike. Those parents are protective. I once made the mistake of riding my bike a little too close to the goslings. I had waited while they crossed in front of me, but apparently I didn’t wait long enough. Mom chased me, pecking at my feet as I peddled.
Yikes. Pecking while you were peddling! You obviously were a potential threat!
She didn’t seem to want an explanation.
🙂
Benjamin laughed as I read the condensed post to him. Adorable photos! He is positively in love with the goslings…”1, 2, 3, 4 – Oh, they are so fuzzy and cute!” We have many Canadian Geese here in R.I., but I’ve never seen them in the water before. Benjamin and I had watched them in the V formation flying South late last Autumn. We had spent time reading about them then. Thank-you, Mr. Mike!!
Nice! Another interesting behavior to watch that the adults and chicks instinctively know. It is amazing how much territory one of those chicks can cover, turning, circling, changing positions while you are trying to get that group shot!
So sweet!!!
fascinating to watch
I was so sad that the family of geese left the pond where they were born. I had hoped they’d stick around longer. I think they are sooooooo cute!!!!
They are always so cute 🙂
Indeed they are. 🙂