Following two months of failed attempts to locate and observe migrant geese (snow geese and/or greater white-fronted geese) this autumn, including two crossings of the Great Plains, I set out for the farmlands east of Columbia once again, hoping that a flock or two might have settled in the many fields of crop stubble. But, before I drove more than two miles from our house, I encountered a lone snow goose, flying westward above one of the busiest intersections in Columbia.
Far from the pristine, pastoral experience that I have been seeking, it was nevertheless a rewarding moment during this frustrating migration season. Though I had theoretically achieved my goal, I pressed on to the farmlands, spending an hour zig-zagging across the scenic, rural landscape. Alas, no additional migrant geese were observed.
Hopefully, this morning's traveler won't prove to be the only snow goose that I observe this season. On the other hand, he/she has flown all the way from the Arctic to make an appearance in my home town. I am (and should be) grateful.
Addendum (12/26/25): A flock of 120 snow geese flew over our neighborhood early this afternoon, heading southwest!
