Return of the Hybrid Goose

[mvjo...@gmail.com]

Yesterday I was surprised and delighted to see the hybrid GreylagXCanada Goose return to the Monte Vista NWR. This unusual goose has been seen since 2017 and has been here ever since. It even took a stand on his (I believe he is a male) favorite pond, which is the first pond to the left on the auto tour loop. Might want to check this bird out on your next visit.

There are currently about 6-8,000 assorted Cranes and geese at the Monte Refuge. They can be seen at the usual turnouts. Their patterns are somewhat affected by the ample snow cover we have this year and so they tend to feed FAR from the observation areas. The Refuge has been plowing some of the fields to break up the crusty snow so the birds can get to the grain. Still a goodly amount of Bald Eagles and other raptors. Have fun...spring is coming....I think!

John Rawinski

Monte Vista, CO