Here they remain well hidden in a 10,000 acre reserve including a range of lakes surrounded in heathland and dunes. Despite often impressive numbers here the proportion of juveniles tends to be low. Perhaps most geese with families halt at an earlier stage in their migration. It is interesting to note that the first volume of the massive 'Birds of the Western Palearctic,' published in 1977 suggested Swedish birds sought more than one wintering area including 'possibly Denmark'. The geese remain in the Yare valley until the first half of February, leaving over a period of two weeks.
Departure is rather earlier in mild winters and somewhat later in cold ones.
The last extended winter here delayed exodus from East Norfolk until March 12. The majority cross the coast, at no great height, north of Caister.