Date: 3/12/25 7:06 pm From: Scott Varney via groups.io <scottvarney1968...> Subject: [hmbirds] Cackling Goose in Greenwich, NY
I had posed a question here last year if a population of Cackling Goose could be found in Washington County, NY. The response was "highly unlikely"For the last 3 days, I have observed well over 30 Cackling Geese on the Battenkill River in Greenwich, NY at both 7:15 am and 2:45 pm. On each of these 3 days, they have been observed in a straight, single-file line along the south side of the river approximately 1/8 of a mile west of the Greenwich Town Beach. This is the same area in which I observed the Tundra Bean Goose in previous weeks. To be clear, these are the smallest Cackling Geese I've ever seen. Each of them are somewhat smaller than an average Mallard, with thick, stubby necks and very short bills. The plumage along the flanks is tawny colored as compared to the whitish color of the nearby Canada Geese. The size difference is remarkable, similar to the size of a Hooded Merganser or Bufflehead. This morning, they were calling to each other, which allowed even more credibility to my observations. The calls utilize a significantly higher vocal pitch than that of Canada Goose. I've seen this group of Cackling Geese each Spring for the last 3 years and each year, I am excited for their return. I would love to hear some feedback from other bird observers. This afternoon, I found them grazing in a cornfield further east on the south side of Route 29 near the hamlet of Battenville. (Across the road from a red-painted single family ranch-style home). Please take caution if parking along Route 29 in Greenwich. The shoulder of the road is almost non-existent along a curvy road...very dangerous for parking. I would encourage a short walk from the Greenwich Town Beach, where parking is safe. From the beach, head on foot in a westerly direction (toward Greenwich village) along 29 for about 1/8 mile. Share your thoughts and photos! Spring migration has begun, Scott VarneySalem, NY _._,_._,_
View/Reply Online (#29589) | Reply to Sender | Reply to Group | Mute This Topic | New Topic Your Subscription | Contact Group Owner | Unsubscribe [<lists...>] _._,_._,_
