Mother Goose Returns to Owensboro Health – A Springtime Tradition

Each spring, as the flowers bloom and warmer days return, a familiar face shows up outside the Mother/Baby Unit at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. She doesn’t wear scrubs, but she’s a bit of a legend around here. Her name is Gabby—though most know her simply as Mother Goose.

Since 2021, Gabby has faithfully returned to the courtyard to nest, bringing with her a quiet sense of joy and wonder. It’s believed she first chose this spot as early as 2019. Each year, she picks a slightly different location in the courtyard. “She’s usually closer to the front,” said Mindy Jones, Nurse Manager of the Mother/Baby Unit. “But this year, she moved farther back. We’re not sure why—maybe just mixing it up.”

When Gabby arrives, the buzz spreads fast. “Whoever sees her first usually says, ‘Mother Goose is back!’” Mindy said. “Then we let security know so they can lock the courtyard doors. She’s protective when she’s nesting.”

Patients often notice her, especially when walking by the courtyard. Some will stop and ask about her or catch a glimpse of the fluffy goslings when they hatch. “It’s something special to share with them,” Mindy said. “Especially when the babies arrive.”

Gabby typically lays her eggs in mid-March, and they begin hatching around the third week of April—usually between April 19 and 23. Once they’re ready, wildlife specialists come to help relocate the family to one of the water features on the hospital campus. But last year, Gabby had her own plan. “She wouldn’t let them catch her,” Mindy said, laughing. “She flew off before they could even get close, and when they got to the lake, she was already there waiting.”

Gabby isn’t just a goose. She’s part of our story. She reminds us that life returns, year after year, in the most unexpected places. And like the families we care for every day, she comes here to deliver something precious.

So if you’re walking through the Mother/Baby Unit this spring and happen to glance out the window, don’t be surprised to see her watching over her nest. After all, she knows exactly where to come when it’s time.