Man wanted for reportedly killing goose with bare hands in New Jersey

JERSEY CITY, N.J. -- An animal rescue group says a man killed a goose with his bare hands in Jersey City and is now calling on the police to conduct an investigation.

A photo shows the family of Canada geese that has now been left fatherless.

The alleged incident took place on the Morris Canal, when the male goose got into a confrontation with a construction worker, according to a witness. Moments later, the goose was found dead on the ground. It was apparently strangled.

This is the time of year when pods of Canada geese and their recently hatched offspring are moving around. Their parents are protective. There are ways to not provoke the Canada geese, especially when they are with their goslings.

Canada geese have been known to mate for life. So, the loss of a parent could have devastating effects.

While the animal has had some criticism for dumping in open spaces, bird lovers say Canada geese are a protected species, and that it's against the law to harm or kill them.