Geese Rise From Brink: From Extinction to Huntable Species

The Aleutian cackling goose's population plummeted to fewer than 800 individuals by 1975, largely because introduced Arctic foxes decimated nesting colonies across the Aleutian Islands. These foxes, introduced by fur traders, preyed on eggs and adult birds, leading to the disappearance of breeding colonies from nearly their entire historic range.

A surviving flock of 300 to 800 birds was discovered on Buldir Island in 1962, becoming the sole wild population and the genetic basis for recovery. Formal protection began in 1967. Recovery efforts focused on eradicating foxes from former breeding islands and safeguarding wintering grounds along the Pacific Flyway.

Decades of work involved removing foxes from islands like Agattu and Kiska, followed by releasing captive-bred and wild geese. Simultaneously, protected wetlands, such as the San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge established in 1987, were created in California to support the geese during their winter migration.

By 2001, the population exceeded 30,000, leading to its removal from the Endangered Species Act. With numbers now near 200,000, management shifted to addressing local issues like agricultural damage. Limited hunting and hazing programs were introduced to balance farming concerns with conservation.

The Aleutian cackling goose, weighing four to six pounds and identifiable by a white neck ring, now numbers around 200,000. This extraordinary recovery is hailed as a major success in North American wildlife management, with ongoing monitoring ensuring population stability.