Giant barnacle goose (SciiFii)

A giant barnacle goose (Branta albagiganteus) is a species of large, social goose that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the swamps, marshlands, rivers, lakes, and ponds across North America to help boost biodiversity. The closest living relative of the giant barnacle goose is the smaller-sized barnacle goose (Branta leucopsis). The giant barnacle goose is the world's largest mainland goose species, growing to be about the size of a mute swan (Cygnus olor) and growing on average of around 125 to 170 cm (49 to 67 in) long, and weigh about 9.2–14.3 kg (20–32 lb), hence its name. The vocalizations of the giant barnacle goose is very similar to those made by Canada geese, but are more raspier-sounding and deeper in tone. The giant barnacle goose is primarily a herbivore that mainly feeds on green vegetation and grains, in the wild, usually a variety of grasses and seaweed, although in the cities and suburbs, it is well known to feed on wheat, rice, and corn when these are available. It is also known to pick food out of garbage bins and feed on bread given by people. Like most geese, the giant barnacle goose is naturally migratory with the wintering range being most of the United States. The calls overhead from large groups of giant barnacle geese flying in V-shaped formation signal the transitions into spring and autumn. In some areas, migration routes have changed due to changes in habitat and food sources. In mild climates from south western British Columbia to California to the Great Lakes, some of the population has become nonmigratory due to adequate winter food supply and a lack of many predators. Males exhibit agonistic behavior both on and off breeding and nesting grounds. This behavior rarely involves interspecific killing. The reproductive and maturing lifecycle of the giant barnacle goose is almost identical to those of the Canada goose. The lifespan in the wild of giant barnacle geese that survive to adulthood usually ranges from 22 to 37 years, with the oldest individual recorded being 43 years old. The conservation status of the giant barnacle goose is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the giant barnacle goose's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii