Why Canada Geese Can't Fly in June and July

Have you ever noticed in the summer that Canada Geese don't fly? Usually you'd get too close to them and they'd fly away. But lately you get close and they just awkwardly waddle away instead.

But why?

It happens every June and July and it's because of molting.

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Why Canada Geese Don't Fly in June and July

All birds molt, where they loose old flight feathers to grow new ones, but typically it happens only one or a few at a time. That way the bird can still fly while growing these new feathers.

But geese don't molt like that. They loose all of their flight feathers at once making them literally unable to fly during this period.

The molting process starts late June to early July. Then it takes about a month for them to regrow their feathers, according to the Indiana DNR. After that, they can go about their business flying again and they're all ready with fresh feathers for the fall migration.

Canada Geese Set Up Camp Near Bodies of Water

Since the geese can't fly for about a month, they usually set up camp near a body of water and in an open area. That way they have easy access to food and water as well as an unobstructed view in case there's any danger.

Farms and pastures with water nearby are a hot spot and sometimes they may decide that golf courses are a good spot, too. If you notice some flightless geese have been in your area for a while, be prepared for them to be there a bit longer.