There are larger subspecies that weigh about 9 pounds and smaller subspecies that only weigh 3 pounds. Goslings, or baby Canada Geese, are yellow with some greenish-gray colorings on the top of the head and back. As with the adult color pattern, there are some variation among the different subspecies. The darker subspecies goslings have a brownish olive or blunt yellow coloring while those of lighter subspecies are lighter and brighter in color. These colors fade as the gosling grows into the adult color pattern.
All goslings have black or blue-gray bills and legs and become darker as juveniles and adults.
They are seldom found alone and communicate constantly with many sounds. Each bird doesn't fly directly behind the others, but off to an angle. They migrate at a slow pace, stopping along the way. Because of this pace, they arrive at the breeding grounds in good physical shape. Most geese mate for life.