September 6

Canada geese are on the move now, tentatively still and not yet in the regular formations and frequency that we associate with their migration. But we are hearing a call from time to time, and loose gatherings fly overhead to inspect the fields across the road. Only a few days ago, Fred turned under the corn in the field next to Anna Maria’s cross, leaving the ground uniform in its mixture of dislodged soil, mustard and corn stalk stubble. In the mornings we see geese browsing in this field, searching for fare that is more easily accessible now.

This must be an ideal stopping point for the early migrants, for there is plenty of fresh water with Asnebumskit nearby, and the farm provides enough varied fodder to fatten up the birds sufficiently. On occasion, when I’m walking the dogs in the morning, I release them from the leash so that they can satisfy some terrier impulse to chase the birds, and it is amusing to watch their two little forms receding across the field, following the small flock which is struggling reluctantly to take flight.

Yesterday, we stumbled upon what had the appearance of a secret goose meeting, in the small pond adjacent to the administrative house in the back of the college. I had hiked down to see if the Joe Pye Weed that rimmed one edge of the pond had yet gone to seed, and when we crested the small hill that forms a berm to the pond, we saw within at least 50 Canada Geese milling about in the water. Given that the pond is only at most fifty feed in diameter, it was an impressive sight of goose density.

Our abrupt intrusion startled several to the point that a chain reaction happened. Within seconds, the geese began attempting to take flight, churning the water and creating an unbelievable cacophony. We watched them depart, flying toward the lower fields which lay to the north.

Notes:

Phlox seeds popping.