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From Extinction to Abundance: Goose's Comeback
16 Oct
Summary
- Introduced foxes nearly caused extinction of Aleutian geese.
- Geese rebounded from 790 birds to over 215,000.
- Successful conservation efforts reversed a major species decline.
The Aleutian cackling goose, a small brown bird with a distinctive white neck ring, was once feared extinct. Discovered on Buldir Island in 1962, the population numbered just 790 in 1967. Introduced Arctic foxes, brought to the Aleutian Islands for fur trapping starting in the mid-18th century, became a major threat, preying on nesting geese and their eggs. By the 1930s, foxes had invaded numerous islands, decimating goose populations.
Declared endangered in 1967, a recovery plan was implemented. This involved trapping foxes on key islands and translocating wild goose families. These efforts, coupled with habitat restoration and hunting protection, proved successful. The geese were reclassified as threatened in 1990 and removed from the endangered species list in 2001.
By 2022, the population had soared to approximately 215,000 birds, far exceeding initial recovery goals. However, this success has led to new challenges, with large goose numbers now impacting grazing pastures for cattle in California and Oregon. Conservation managers continue to balance wildlife needs with agricultural interests and hunting regulations.
