Final answer:
Geese and other migratory birds learn to migrate by following and imitating their parents, not just by innate homing instincts. They use environmental cues and learned routes for navigation, which have evolved over generations to ensure survival.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goose, along with other large waterfowl, indeed learns to migrate by following its parents. This behavior is part of a broader set of behaviors often seen in migratory species where each new generation learns from observing and mimicking the older generations. Unlike a homing instinct which is innate, migration patterns can be complex and involve learning the route from experienced individuals in a flock.
Migratory behaviors are essential for the survival of many species as they move to areas with more favorable conditions for feeding, breeding, or overwintering. The iconic V-shaped flying formation of geese not only helps to conserve energy but also facilitates better communication among the flock. Geese and other birds typically follow the same routes annually and use a combination of environmental cues, such as the position of the sun, wind direction, and landmarks to navigate.
This learning-based migration strategy is supplemented by inherited tendencies and environmental triggers, which together ensure that species like geese can successfully navigate long distances during migration. The ability to learn migration routes has evolved over generations, ensuring the continued survival and fitness of these species.