Geese are remarkable long-distance flyers, capable of covering significant distances in a day. On average, migrating geese can fly between 200 and 600 miles (320 to 960 kilometers) daily, depending on species, wind conditions, terrain, and available food and water. Some species, like the Canada goose, can fly up to 1,500 miles (about 2,400 kilometers) in a single day under ideal weather and wind conditions, particularly when benefiting from strong tailwinds. Flight speeds during migration typically range from 30 to 50 miles per hour but can reach up to 70 miles per hour with favorable winds. Their ability to fly such distances relies on powerful wing muscles, aerodynamic bodies, accumulated fat reserves for energy, and flying in energy-efficient formations such as the V-formation. These factors allow them to perform impressive migratory flights often spanning hundreds or thousands of miles over multiple days.
