Wildlife of Britain

The Canada Goose in Britain: Expansion, Ecology and Impact The Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) is one of the most recognisable large birds in Britain today.  With its bold black neck and white chinstrap, it is now a familiar presence on lakes, reservoirs, rivers and parkland across the country. Yet unlike native wildfowl such as the greylag goose, the Canada Goose is an introduced species whose success story has reshaped parts of Britain’s wetland ecology. Origins and Introduction to Britain The Canada Goose is native to North America. It was first introduced to Britain in the 17th century as an ornamental bird for estates and park lakes. Over time, escaped and released birds established wild populations. By the 20th century, deliberate releases and natural spread allowed the species to expand widely.  Today, it is naturalised throughout England, much of Wales, lowland Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland. Although fully established, it is not considered native to Britain. ...