High populations are the result of complex interactions. Intentional and unintentional human actions on migration and wintering areas, the flexibility of feeding and habitat selection behavior of geese in response to these habitat changes, and global climate change are all implicated. These can best be summarized as follows:
Agricultural conversion of natural habitats
Water management practices
Refuge creation and management
Hunting restrictions
Capitalizing on new foods and sanctuaries
Winter and spring habitat and range expansion
Dispersal from degraded habitats
Warming of southern mid-continent breeding areas
Colder springs in northern Hudson Bay prolonging staging period
Increased grubbing during spring staging
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revised - 12/18/02