Grazing in the Grass

I went out to Esquimalt Lagoon recently to take photos of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) for an artist acquaintance. For much of the winter there is a large flock of these birds that graze on the vast spread of lawn between Hatley Castle and Esquimalt Lagoon. Hatley Castle has been featured here many times.

Until I became a birdwatcher I was not aware that Canada Geese are primarily grazers. Grass and other foliage form the major part of their diet. The geese in the above photo are grazing very much like cattle or horses.

For those of you who may have other associations with "Grazing in the Grass", below is a link to the famous musical composition, one of my favorites, written and performed by Hugh Masakela.