Indices of Structural Size and Condition of Canada Geese

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Abstract
We determined the skeletal volumes (SV) of Canada goose (Branta canadensis) carcasses by measuring the water displacement of excised bones. Use of SV in condition indices yielded similar results to other authors'' lipid indices and provided the capability to standarize protein stores for size. Protein stores varied widely for female geese and may be an important component of condition during incubation. Skeletal volume and associated condition indices were predicted well using selected variables obtainable from live geese.