Distribution and habitat use of Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) during spring and fall migration along the James Bay east coast

Abstract

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) is the main waterfowl harvested by Cree hunters in James Bay. Environmental changes that could affect the number, distribution, and migration patterns of geese have occurred along James Bay’s east coast in the last 50 years, including isostatic rebound, climate warming, and hydroelectric development. We determined the spring and fall distribution of Canada Geese along the James Bay east coast in 2018 and identified habitats associated with the greatest goose densities. We conducted four helicopter surveys between Waskaganish and Chisasibi, two each during spring and fall. The main goose concentrations were between Eastmain and Wemindji in both seasons. In spring, goose densities increased with the percentage of salt marshes whereas in fall, the highest densities were in areas with the greatest proportion of tidal flats and turbid water. We did not find any relationships between Common Eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) beds and the distribution of Canada Geese although it was an important habitat for geese in the 1970s. Our observations are consistent with surveys conducted in the 1990s that found limited use of eelgrass beds by migrating geese. This suggests that geese may be using alternative habitats during migration following the decline of eelgrass beds reported by Cree land users and confirmed by ground surveys and remote sensing. Changes in distribution and habitat use of goose flocks along the James Bay east coast are probably a consequence of habitat changes, natural and human disturbances, and the increasing number of moult migrant temperate breeding Canada Goose (Branta canadensis maxima).