Father Goose
 The Adventures of a Wildlife Hero
©1995 William Lishman, Photos by Joseph Duff

This autobiographical adventure follows Bill's childhood and teenage years all the way up to 1993's goose migration, and is a must have for anyone curious about the real story behind FLY AWAY HOME, or interested in the life of this fascinating character. The following quote is from the inside cover of Father Goose. 
"Ever since he was a child watching the gulls swoop behind his father's plough on the family farm in Ontario, Bill Lishman has wanted to experience the bird's freedom and nonchalant ease in the air. Now after many years of dedication, ingenuity and hard work, he has achieved what many thought was impossible - he has succeeded in modifying the migratory patterns of the Canada goose.

Due to interference with their habitat, many birds are who are by nature migratory species no longer depart for southern climes at the onset of winter. Using a natural phenomenon called imprinting, in which birds of of some species follow anything they see within the first twenty four hours of life, the newly hatched birds would imprint on Lishman, his microlight aircraft and a tape recording of the insect like droning of the engine.

In October of 1993 Lishman took off from his Toronto farm in a microlight of his own design and construction. Eighteen birds followed 'Goose Leader' in a V-formation all the way south to Virginia. The following April the banded flock returned unaided to Lishman's farm to greet their surrogate father. Eventually the principles learned by working with common birds could be applied to endangered species such as whooping cranes and trumpeter swans. Father Goose is the heartwarming fascinating story of a modern day ecological hero."

Limited quantities available in hardcover or paperback from Operation Migration's Web site, or by contacting us at 1-800-675-2618. Proceeds from the book sales help fund Operation Migration's current and future experiments involving endangered birds.

Father Goose & His Goslings
By Bill Lishman, Illustrated By Jack McMaster.

        Father Goose and his Goslings is an imaginative and inspiring story written for young readers. This book has been featured in school curriculums throughout North America. Based on the true story behind Bill Lishman, his daughter Carmen and their adventures with Canada geese.  If your child enjoyed FLY AWAY HOME, They will love this illustrated storybook.

Available in full colour or black and white from Operation Migration, or by contacting us at 1- 800- 675-2618.