The Flock

Meet the Flock

Four species, one remarkable family. Each bird has its own personality, history, and place in the daily ritual of feeding and connection.

Canadian Geese

Branta canadensis

Bold, loyal, and surprisingly affectionate once trust is established.

The Canadian geese were the first to approach. It took weeks of patient, consistent visits before they stopped retreating. Now they come running — or swimming — the moment they hear the whistle. Some will eat directly from an open hand.

Quick Facts

•One of the most recognisable waterfowl in the UK and North America
•Mate for life — pairs stay together year after year
•Highly intelligent with excellent memory for faces
•Goslings can walk, swim, and feed within 24 hours of hatching
•Will defend their family fiercely but become gentle with trusted humans

Mute Swans

Cygnus olor

Regal and initially wary, but deeply trusting once a bond is formed.

Swans take longer to trust than geese, but the reward is extraordinary. Once comfortable, they glide directly over and accept food gently. Being allowed to stroke a mute swan is a rare privilege — a testament to months of respectful, consistent presence.

Quick Facts

•The largest flying bird native to the UK
•Despite the name, they do make sounds — hissing, grunting, and wing-beating
•Can live for over 20 years in the wild
•A pair will use the same nesting site year after year
•Cygnets are grey-brown and gradually turn white over their first year

Egyptian Geese

Alopochen aegyptiaca

Loud, colourful, and full of character — the entertainers of the flock.

The Egyptian geese arrived as a surprise addition to the flock. Their bold personalities and vivid colouring make them impossible to miss. They were initially the most cautious, but curiosity eventually won out — and now they join the feeding sessions with enthusiasm.

Quick Facts

•Originally from Africa — now established across much of the UK
•Not a true goose — more closely related to shelducks
•Famous for their loud, honking calls and dramatic displays
•Striking plumage with chestnut eye patches and pink legs
•Highly territorial during breeding season

Hybrid Geese

Various crosses

Unique individuals — each one a one-of-a-kind mix of traits and markings.

The hybrid geese are perhaps the most fascinating members of the flock. Their unusual markings draw double-takes from passers-by. Getting to know them individually — learning their personalities and quirks — has been one of the most rewarding parts of this whole journey.

Quick Facts

•Hybrids occur naturally when different goose species interbreed
•Common crosses include Canada × Greylag and Canada × Barnacle
•Each hybrid has a completely unique appearance
•Often display a fascinating blend of behaviours from both parent species
•Hybrids are generally fertile and can produce further mixed offspring