Canada geese molt and lose flight, forming large flocks across the country

During the current moulting period, which runs from now until August, Canada geese shed all of their flight feathers at once. This makes both adults and goslings unable to fly and temporarily more aggressive toward humans.

The flight‑less birds tend to gather in larger flocks for safety, a behavior described as "safety in numbers." Wildlife experts advise people to give the birds a wide berth and avoid getting between adults and their young. Canada geese are protected under federal migratory bird legislation, which prohibits intentional harassment.

These observations are based on comments from Ryan Fisher, curator of vertebrate zoology at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum.