I am always a tad reluctant to positively identify Cackling Geese, being fully aware that variables other than size may influence one's perception of the species. Today at Reesor Pond in Markham I observed two very small geese, barely bigger (if at all) than the ubiquitous Mallards. The neck appeared to be short, although adjacent Canada Geese in certain postures appeared to be equally short-necked. I was unable to pick out any distinct vocalizations given the general cacophony and the roar of a quite strong wind. I was hoping that the birds might leave the water but it never happened. I would be interested to hear the opinion of anyone else seeing these birds, if in fact they stay around for someone else to take a look. For what it's worth they were in my best estimation Cackling Geese.
David Gascoigne Waterloo, ON www.travelswithbirds.blogspot.com _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
