[Bring_Back_Shantz]

Originally Posted by Rathji

Geese always fly in sets of 3 at minimum, in a V formation, for air resistance reasons. They rotate between flying lead and resting while flying tail. If one goose gets too tired to continue flying, he will land and at least 2 other geese will land with him, so when he goes to fly again he will have enough partners to keep flying.

So, I realize it doesn't really answer your question, but it kind of explains how geese work, so I am going to say that these 5 just were done resting/eating/etc and wanted to get going.

It's not like a family road trip to the Grand Canyon where the police get upset if you leave a couple kids at a gas station.

That is 100% incorrect.
I have seen geese flying in pairs and solo many, many times.