Journal | March 7, 2026
Geese
March is pruning month. Warm weather stimulates the vines. Sap flows. After every cut the vines bleed (or cries depending on what appellation you work in). The surrounding environment also wakes. In March birds take center stage.
Look up and most likely there will be a fat breasted hawk perched on a post or tree quietly scanning the landscape but with one eye always on you.
However the geese are pure entertainment. While the spectacle of high-flying irregular wedges regularly passing from one horizon to the next is truly awesome, it is our pond is where the action is. March is nesting time and couples engage in fierce turf wars. Hardscrabble's Cabernet hill is ideally situated right above the pond's landing zone. We always prune Cabernet in March, so we have a front row seat.
The landing approach is right overhead, close enough to hear powerful swoosh of each wing flap. The wings then go into parachute formation and webbed feet extend out for landing. The crash-like impact of a water landing is impressive.
This time of year there is much drama and conflict as couples stake claim to nesting grounds. Outstretched necks and nasty intimidating shrieks never seem to end in physical contact, but eventually there is a victor.
The vanquished move on. Distinct and rhythmic honks precede a powerful water take off. The separation of body from the hold of water is majestic.
Pruning Cabernet is always memorable.
Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Hardscrabble Journal: March 7, 2026