Are Canada Geese still considered a protected species in the U.S.?

Question

There are hundreds of thousands in my area that don't go south. Can they be killed and given to the poor and homeless to eat?

Answer 1

Migratory geese are considered a game bird and come under the applicable laws. Resident geese are mainly just a nuisance. Some places have culled their populations in various ways, but enough people feel sentimental over the geese that it's usually controversial.

Answer 2

All migratory birds are protected. The resident geese are a giant subspecies from the Midwest. They can be killed during the hunting season or under permit. Incidentally, I hear that they are incredibly greasy, compared to the migratory ones.

Answer 3

each area has hunting seasons for geese. usually during winter months. a lot of hunters donate their kill to churches and other groups that distribute them to needy people.