Posted by Scott Paterson on 2010/05/12

Category: News

Earlier this season, we had an extraordinary occurence take place on the golf course. A CANADA GOOSE WAS NESTING IN A TREE!!

I have lived in the country and been around the golf course my entire life and over the years seen hundreds of Canada Geese nesting in the usual places. Typically, Canada Geese nest around pond, river and lake edges, in long grasses hidden away from predators such as the fox, racoon and other land predators. In some instances, in urban areas, Canada Geese will even nest on flat rooftops and so on, but I have never before heard of a Canada Goose nesting in a tree.

The goose in the photo, was nesting between the 11th & 14th hole approximately 10' up in the V of a Maple tree. Quietly tucked away, the goose was very well camouflaged and virtually impossible to see to the golfers playing and driving by. I only wish I could have seen the goose land on her nest. If you have ever seen a Canada Goose (and who hasn't) they are not the most graceful of birds. However, this particular goose was clearly able to do it.

Over the last few days, I have spoken with many people including Ducks Unlimited representatives, several avid outdoors men, searched the internet and so far, no one I have spoken to has seen or heard of this happening. Could this be evolution happening on The Royal Ashburn Golf Club?

If anyone has witnessed this in the past, or can share some insight or thoughts, I would love to hear from you.

Scott Paterson

scottpaterson@royalashburngolfclub.com