Canada geese in Green Bay, October 23, 2023. PC: Fox 11 Online
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Canada geese are gathering in places all around Northeast Wisconsin, and experts say the birds are resting, and fueling up, before many of them head south for the winter.
A familiar “Flying V” formation cruised over the lagoon Monday morning. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary Superintendent Steve Lakatos says the waterfowl are starting to appear in the Green Bay area.
“You can definitely see groups of geese coming to land on the water. It’s a long, dangerous journey for sure. So they got to stop in the smart spots to get a little bit of rest, and a little bit of food,” said Steve Lakatos, Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary Superintendent.
Lakatos says the wildlife sanctuary offers just that. The Lueptow family says a little rain didn’t stop them from feeding the birds.
“We actually just saw a hawk fly across the parking lot here, and we seen a lot of mallards,” said Christina Lueptow, Manitowoc.
“We love coming up here, and letting the kids learn about the birds. They love identifying the different birds,” said Jacob Lueptow, Manitowoc.
“I like to come out here, because it’s fun to see the ducks,” said Harrison Lueptow, Manitowoc.
“It’s fun to feed the ducks and other animals, like geese, and ducks,” said Marshall Lueptow, Manitowoc.
Bird experts say freshly-harvested farm plots are a good food source too. Dozens of Canada geese were spotted in a corn field on the southwest side of De Pere. And depending on the weather, experts say migration could stretch another few weeks, leaving plenty of time for birdwatching.
“It really gives you that opportunity to just see something that you don’t see everyday. It gives you a great opportunity to get out in the woods, grab your binoculars, and just kind of immerse yourself in nature, which is very therapeutic,” said Lakatos.
Bird experts say many of the Canada geese will make it all the way to southern Illinois, Kentucky, or Tennessee for the winter.
Others may stay in Northeast Wisconsin, depending on area weather conditions.
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