Reproductive Success of the Resident Canada Goose Flock at the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge

During 1975 and 1976, a total of 75 Canada goose (Branta canadeneis) nests were located in the Eufaula area. Of all nesting attempts found, 41 percent in 1975 and 51 percent in 1976 hatched at least one gosling. Nest mortality. was due mainly to high water levels with predation, human interference, and competition for nesting territories also contributing. Minimum number of goslings raised per successful nest was 1.5 in 1975 and 2.9 in 1976. At least 81 goslings were raised to flight stage during these two nesting seasons. The flock at Eufaula has expanded by more than 200 percent since 1969.