Snow Geese Spring Migration in Quebec 2025

Snow geese migration is among the most amazing nature shows in North America. From late March to about mid-May, the geese population is concentrated near the St. Lawrence River. Around 500,000 snow geese rest and feed on the Saint-Pierre Lake. The birds choose these flooded areas not accidentally, but because this is where they can find American bulrush roots, full of nutrients and stock fat before their long trip. Baie-du-Febvre and Saint-Pierre Lake belong to a UNESCO biosphere reserve that attracts many birdwatchers during the spring and fall seasons. Visitors can see thousands of geese before their 4,000-kilometer journey through Central Quebec.

Montmagny, known as Canada's snow goose capital, also witnesses birds in great numbers, mostly along the coastline of the St. Lawrence River. In early May, large flocks of geese congregate at Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, located in about 37 mi (60 km) from Quebec City. Snow geese like staying in a crowd, and that makes the view exceptionally beautiful when they congregate at lakes, covering the water. These birds also show amazing endurance as they can fly as fast as 59 mi/h (95 km/h) and cover 600 mi (about 1 000 km) without rest.