Cobra Chickens

Canadian Geese. Also appropriately known as Cobra Chickens. They are not exactly know for their friendliness. So, imagine my surprise when a family of 2 adult geese and their 6 goslings attempted a visit with me!

I was enjoying my yoga fitness practice on my Stand UP Paddle board, anchored in the middle of the Eramosa River, in the Rockwood Conservation Park. The key word here is "anchored". Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a family of geese approaching me. Startled, I  realized that they were actually headed directly toward me; one of the adult birds had its mouth open and its tongue wagging at me!

Again, my SUP board was anchored. There was no time to up anchor and avoid being nipped. Instead, I reached for my hat and paddle for my defense. 

"No, no, no, no ... off you go - GO AWAY!" I said firmly, waving my hat to encourage them to retreat. It didn't. The adult bird was trying to get on my SUP board with a couple of the goslings! 

Again I waved my hat and paddle. Not dissuaded, the family swam to other side of my board to mount their attack. After two additional attempts, the adult geese seemed bored and lead their young further down the river. 

Naturally I reached for my phone to take their picture ...