(Branta canadensis hutchinsii)
We have on the Pacific Coast four varieties of the =Branta
canadensis=, or that species to which belongs the Canada goose, all
resembling each other closely except in size. Two of these species are
generally considered honkers by most of our sportsmen, while others
have two or three local names for them, among which are Mexican goose
and Lower California goose. The fact is that while the Canada goose is
quite common on the coasts of Mexico, neither the Hutchins goose nor
the white-cheeked goose migrate that far south.
The Hutchins goose so closely resembles the Canada goose, or honker as
it is popularly called, that it is principally distinguished by its
smaller size and a considerable difference in the call. The Hutchins
goose ranges as far east as the Mississippi valley, and on the Pacific
Coast south only to about Santa Barbara county, California. This is
one of the two varieties that is given the local names of Mexican and
Lower California goose.
=Color=--Same as the Canada goose, from which it is only distinguished
by its smaller size and a considerable difference in its call.
=Nest and Eggs=--Same as the Canada goose.
=Measurements=--Wing, not more than 17 inches; bill, 1-1/2 inches.