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Although
this species rarely breeds in Southern Quebec, the Canada Goose must be
one of Canada's most recognizable species, due to both its distinctive
honking and its commanding appearance. The Canada Goose is most often
seen flying overhead in huge numbers in characteristic V-shaped formations
during migration, which peaks in Quebec during early-mid October, and
again, in late April-early May. Of the 11 distinct races of Canada Goose,
two occur naturally in Quebec. This species is a strict vegetarian. Although
it consumes shoots, roots, berries and seeds of local plants during the
breeding season in northern parts of Quebec, the Canada Goose builds up
massive energy reserves on the way to breeding grounds, often by feeding
on waste grain in agricultural fields. In turn, the Canada Goose is a
staple food item for natives of northern Quebec, who annually harvest
64,000 Canada Geese. In addition, each fall, sport hunters in Southern
Quebec alone take 40,000-50,000 Canada Geese. Populations of Canada Goose
have declined from the 1980's to the 1990's, suggesting that heavy hunting
pressure may have an impact on Goose populations.
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