What are Most Common Species of Geese to Hunt?

Popular Geese Species in North America

In North America, Canada geese (Branta canadensis) are one of the most widely distributed and abundant species, with populations found in wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields. Hunters often target Canada geese due to their large numbers and adaptability to human-dominated landscapes. In fact, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that there are over 5 million Canada geese in North America, with many populations considered overabundant and in need of management.

Hunting Snow Geese in the Prairies

Snow geese (Anser caerulescens) are another highly prized species in North America, particularly in the prairies of Canada and the United States. These birds are highly migratory, traveling long distances between their breeding grounds in the Arctic and their wintering grounds in the Gulf Coast and Mexico. Hunters often use decoys and calling to attract Snow geese, which are known for their distinctive honking calls. In some areas, hunters are required to use specially designed equipment, such as “Snow goose” decoys and “Snow goose” calls, to help control these populations.

European Geese Species

In Europe, Greylag geese (Anser anser) and White-fronted geese (Anser albifrons) are two of the most common species hunted by field hunters. Greylag geese are known for their aggressive behavior and are often hunted in large numbers. Hunters use a variety of techniques, including driven shooting and still hunting, to control these populations. In the UK, for example, the National Trust estimates that there are over 200,000 Greylag geese, with many more found in other parts of Europe.