Young, tender shoots of new grass are preferred because of their high protein and low fiber content. Grasses that have been mowed or grazed are ideal. Native aquatic plants and seedheads of grasses also are eaten when available. During the fall hunting season, geese move to areas where hunting and disturbance are minimal. Winter places high energy demands on geese and browse may be less available because of snow cover and ice.
Agricultural crops become more important during winter.
Waste grain in stubble fields is preferred but standing crops will also be used, particularly in partially harvested fields. During winter, geese concentrate where food and open water are available. Observations of marked birds indicate that even small wintering flocks often consist of a mixture of local birds and migrants. A key ingredient for alleviating damage is for neighbors or affected property owners to cooperate. A compromise between those who attract geese and those who do not want them around is often the best practical solution.