There are many different species of both birds, and knowing which you’re looking at often depends on location and behavior. The Canada goose (often mistakenly called the “Canadian goose”) is one of the most recognizable geese, especially across North America. These geese spend a lot of time on land, graze frequently and travel in loud, […]

Goose vs. Duck Identification: Size, Bills and Neck Length


There are many different species of both birds, and knowing which you’re looking at often depends on location and behavior.

The Canada goose (often mistakenly called the “Canadian goose”) is one of the most recognizable geese, especially across North America. These geese spend a lot of time on land, graze frequently and travel in loud, V-shaped flocks.

Canada geese
Large flock of Canada geese.

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Ducks are a bit more diverse. From sea ducks like common goldeneyes to colorful drakes in your local pond, ducks and geese may be cousins, but they’re wildly different in lifestyle. Ducks tend to dive or dabble for food and have a wide variety of feather patterns across breeds. Males, aka drakes, often have flashier feathers than females.

Swans, by the way, also belong to this same bird family, though they are even larger and more graceful-looking compared to both ducks and geese.