Walking to work on this cold, November morning, my attention was drawn to the distant, unmistakable call of snow geese. Faint at first, the high-pitched clamour grew louder but they were difficult to find among the high clouds in the predawn light. Suddenly, I saw them, a wavering double-V of migrants, angling to the southeast.
Long a favorite of mine and an inspiration for many naturalists, snow geese are among the last migrants of fall and the first to head north in the spring. Here in Missouri, their numbers will build through mid December but, eventually, most will move on to wetlands along the Gulf Coast and lower Mississippi Valley. By February, flocks will travel north once again, destined for breeding grounds on the Arctic tundra.
More that almost any other species, migrant geese stir the soul of man. Moving high overhead, their vocal flocks symbolize both freedom and determination. If only we could give up our daily troubles and share their adventure!
