Geese | North American Bird Species | CCNAB Lives, Habitats & Pictures of the Geese Enter Bird's Name in Search Box: There are at least nine geese species in the goose family, not including exotic species and domesticated varieties. The Canada Goose is the most plentiful and is seen throughout North America. There are no less than six sub-species ranging from the Common Canada Goose, Lesser Canada Goose, Richardson's Canada Goose, Aleutian Canada Goose, Dusky Canada Goose and the now separated with a class of its own, Cackling Goose. Then, there is also the Brant, Greater White-fronted Goose, Lesser White-fronted Goose, Ross's and the Snow Goose. The Ross's Goose and Snow Goose comes in white plumage and a bluish-black dark morph plumage. There are the vagrants such as the Emperor Goose, Barnacle Goose, Graylag Goose, Bean Goose, Bar-headed Goose and Pink-footed Goose, that sometimes show up on our North American coastlines. Almost all the North American geese, even in individual classifications have sub-species, named "Lesser" or "Western", with each group having their subtle differences.

Other geese sometimes seen in our recreational parks, nature centres and on farms is the domesticated Graylag Goose. This bird can be all white or have the same markings like its wild cousin but has a much heavier body. There is also the Egyptian Goose and Swan Goose which is also known as the "Chinese Goose". Click on the bird images or names to see pictures of the Geese of North America Focus On: Winter Geese - Part 1: Part 1 - The 'grey geese' (Full Text) Part 1 - The 'grey geese' (Full Text) This page contains 2 reader comments. Click here to view (latest Sat 02/04/16 17:13). Pink-footed Geese: Redmires, S. Yorks. Overland movement can be spectacular. (Photo: Richard Hill) The spectacle of a flock of wild geese passing overhead is one that few observers could fail to marvel at. In Britain and Ireland we're lucky in that large numbers of wintering geese frequent our coastlines from as far away as Siberia in the east and Arctic Canada in the west.

These long-distance migrants can, of course, carry vagrants but can also comprise birds of different races in their ranks providing identification challenges and learning curves for those keen to push the boundaries of identification that little bit further. Taiga Bean Goose Anser fabalis fabalis The taxonomy of bean geese is presently in a state of flux. Some authors split Taiga and Tundra Bean Goose, whilst others lump them under Bean Goose. In Europe, the main breeding area of Taiga Bean Goose is in the taiga zone of northern Fennoscandia and western Russia, eastwards. The main wintering grounds are in southern Sweden, countries along the southern part of the Baltic and the Low Countries and is thought to number 80,000 birds, 30,000 of which are in southern Sweden. There has been an increase in the population of Taiga Bean Geese since the 1960s, but it is unclear why this has occurred. In Britain there are two wintering populations of Taiga Bean Geese, totalling perhaps 450 birds in most winters.

In Norfolk birds can be found in the Yare Valley between late November and mid-February, with up to 100 at Cantley Marshes RSPB TG3803 . In Scotland up to 240 birds can be found roosting at Fannyside Lochs (Clyde) this winter NS819722 , or feeding at Slamannan (Forth) NS835765 or NS831768 . Away from these sites, Taiga Bean Goose is a truly rare bird. Taiga Bean Goose: Slamannan, Forth (Nov 2002). An extremely rare bird away from the winter flocks in Scotland and Norfolk. (Photo: John Molloy) Taiga Bean Goose: Denge Marsh, Kent (Feb 2003). Larger than Tundra Bean Geese, with a slimmer neck, and longer, mostly orange, bill. (Photo: Marcus Lawson) Taiga Bean Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Mar 2003). The lower mandible is distinctly narrow and flat.

(Photo: Mark Breaks) Taiga Bean Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Mar 2003). Taiga is a large goose, noticeably so compared with Pink-footed Geese. (Photo: Mark Breaks) Tundra Bean Goose Anser fabalis serrirostris Formerly a winter vagrant, is now an increasingly regular winter visitor but is still something of a scarcity, particularly away from East Anglia. In most winters small groups are usually detected with other grey geese flocks, but cold-weather influxes produce the largest numbers and result from displacement of birds from the main wintering grounds on the near-continent (the European wintering population numbers around 300,000 birds). During such influxes 3-figure flocks have been noted, but in most winters single-figure counts are the norm. A rough rule-of-thumb for east and southeast Britain suggests that most bean geese reported away from the main Taiga Bean Geese wintering areas turn out to be Tundras, but, of course, exceptions to the rule do occur and further north the rule-of-thumb perhaps favours Taiga.

Birds of both Taiga and Tundra forms can sometimes have the orange on the bare parts coloured pink — these birds are referred to as 'Sushkin's Goose'. Tundra Bean Goose: Myroe Levels, Londonderry (Jan 2004). A narrow orange subterminal band on the bill is typical, but this is variable and the extent of orange on the bill is not a definitive identification feature. (Photo: Paul and Andrea Kelly) Tundra Bean Goose: Dumpton, Kent (Jan 2004). Similar in structure to Pink-footed Goose, with which Tundras can be easily confused — and vice-versa. Tundra is, on average, larger and longer-billed. (Photo: Dylan Wrathall) Tundra Bean Goose: Kilnsea, E. Yorks (Jan 2004). Small winter groups along the east coast more often than not turn out to be Tundras. (Photo: Mark Stirland) Tundra Bean Goose: Tophill Low, E. Yorks (Nov 2003). Shorter bill with a deeper base to the lower mandible than Taiga.

Unlike Pink-footed Geese, the head, flanks and upperparts are dark, the palest part of the bird often being the breast. (Photo: Paul Ashton) Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus One of our more familiar wintering geese, with large numbers wintering in north Norfolk, the Humber estuary, eastern Scotland (where three-quarters of our wintering population can be found) and the northwest of England on estuaries such as the Ribble and Solway. Inland birders can often share in the spectacle as movements are often noted over inland counties on a line between The Wash and Northwest, with movement usually noted on clear anticyclonic winter days. The increasing UK wintering population is estimated at 225,000 birds (compared to 30,000 in the 1950s). Our wintering population breeds almost exclusively in central Iceland and eastern Greenland. Another population of Pink-feet breeds in Svalbard and winters in the Low Countries and totals 35,000 birds. These two populations do not mix through the year Pink-footed Goose: Fairhaven, Lancs (Feb 2003).

Sometimes the bare-parts can be difficult to assess at distance, leading to confusion with Tundra Bean Goose. (Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Pink-footed Goose: Gibraltar Point, Lincs (Jan 2004). Lone birds can make judging size and structure even more difficult. (Photo: Steve Botham) Pink-footed Goose: Burnham Market, Norfolk (Oct 2002). The contrasting paler forewing of Pink-feet (compared with bean geese) is noticeable in flight, as is the broad white trailing edge to the tail. Pink-footed Goose: Burnham Market, Norfolk (Oct 2002). The head and neck contrast with the greyish-washed upperparts. Eurasian White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons albifrons Nominate pink-billed birds occur at several traditional sites in the south of England, though numbers are declining due to birds taking advantage of milder winters and wintering further east in Europe. As a result, harsh cold winters on the continent produce the largest numbers of birds, but during a winter like the present one numbers are relatively small.

Favoured sites include the Severn Estuary (Slimbridge WWT SO723048 where up to 800 have been noted this winter), Norfolk (500 have been recorded at Reedham) and Kent (350 birds have been noted at Capel Fleet TR0169 ), plus smaller numbers in Suffolk. Other Siberian/North American forms might also be expected to occur Eurasian White-fronted Goose: Farmoor, Oxon (Feb 2003). White forehead blaze on adults is restricted to the bill base. (Photo: Nic Hallam) Eurasian White-fronted Goose: Pingewood, Berks (May 2002). The barred underparts develop during the 1st winter.(Photo: Marek Walford) Eurasian White-fronted Goose: Keyhaven, Hants (Jan 2002). The pink bill is shorter than Greenland White-front. (Photo: Russell Wynn) Eurasian White-fronted Goose: Keyhaven, Hants (Jan 2002). (Photo: Russell Wynn) Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris As the name suggests, these orange-billed birds breed in western Greenland.

This population moves to Iceland before moving to winter in Ireland (10,000 winter at Wexford Slobs (Co. Wexford) and Western Scotland (particularly Islay where 13,000 birds winter), with smaller numbers in Wales and northern Scotland. The total British population is put at 17,000, with 14,000 in Ireland. In England, small numbers winter in the Grindon Lough (Northumberland) area NY806677 . These are the only regular birds in England and have been wintering there each winter for over 10 years. Records away from the winter haunts are rare, with, for example, just 20 records in Norfolk, and just over 20 in Yorkshire. Greenland White-fronted Goose: Islay, Argyll (Mar 2002). 1st-winters lack the bold belly patches of adults. (Photo: Russell Slack) Greenland White-fronted Goose: Holkham, Norfolk (Feb 2003). Compared with albifrons (background), darker, with a longer and slimmer orange-toned bill.

(Photo: Andrew Easton) Greenland White-fronted Goose: Grindon, Northumbs (Apr 2003). Larger and longer-necked than albifrons, plus darker tailed with only a narrow white border, unlike albifrons which has a noticeable white border. (Photo: John Malloy) Greenland White-fronted Goose: Holkham, Norfolk (Feb 2003). Compared with albifrons (background), darker, noticeably so on the belly, with more uniform upperparts. (Photo: Andrew Easton) Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus A rare vagrant to our shores, with the majority of records over the years at Slimbridge WWT (Glos). This species breeds from northern Fennoscandia eastwards to Siberia — the main wintering grounds are from the coastal plains of the Caspian and Black Sea eastwards. There has been a significant decline in numbers in northern Scandinavia (from more than 10,000 birds before 1950 to fewer than 30 pairs by 1990). To try and redress the situation, reintroduction schemes commenced in the area using Barnacle Geese as foster parents.

This has led to the regular wintering of Lesser Whitefronts in The Netherlands, which has resulted in some British records (for example, a captive-bred bird released in Lapland in July 1993 consorted with Norfolk Bean Geese between November 1993 and January 1994, being relocated in Denmark between February and April and then back in Finland towards the end of April). However, the status of truly wild birds has been clouded recently with the result that birds away from traditional haunts, such as Slimbridge, are treated with suspicion. Lesser White-fronted Goose: Lancs (Jul 2002). This feral bird illustrates the yellow orbital ring to the eye, one of the features to separate this species from White-fronted Goose (some White-fronts can show a narrow orbital ring), as do the less extensive belly markings (the wing-tips also extend beyond the tail). (Photo: Stephen Dunstan) Lesser White-fronted Goose: Blackpool, Lancs (Jan 2002). Note also that the white on the head extends onto the crown and and the bill is much smaller than that of White-fronted Goose.

(Photo: Stephen Dunstan) Lesser White-fronted Goose: Slimbridge, Glos (Feb 2003). What better credentials for a potentially 'wild' bird than a 1st-winter at this location, but neck-collared birds from the reintroduction scheme have also been noted at Slimbridge. (Photo: John Malloy) Lesser White-fronted Goose: Slimbridge, Glos (Feb 2003). Unlike a White-front of the same age, the nail of the bill is pale and the prominent orbital ring is evident, as would be the smaller size and darker plumage. (Photo: Robert Duckhouse) Greylag Goose Anser anser A familiar goose, with the majority of British birds introduced during the 20th century. This has resulted in a feral breeding population of just under 30,000 pairs. However, there is an increasing breeding population of 1,000 pairs of native birds breeding in northwest Scotland. During the winter around 80,000 wild birds from Iceland arrive to winter in Northern Ireland and Scotland, with ringing studies illustrating that these birds can penetrate as far south as northern England and Norfolk.

Scandinavian birds winter in The Netherlands, France and Spain and there have been ringing recoveries in Britain from Poland, and neck-collared birds from Norway and Sweden have been seen in southeast England. Pink-billed birds of the eastern race rubrirostris (Eastern Greylag Goose) have been noted as an occasional vagrant to Europe and there have been a small number of birds considered to be this race identified in Britain. Greylag Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Oct 2003). Large size with large head and heavy bill — juveniles are much as adults but lack the indistinct belly spots. (Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Greylag Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Oct 2003). The forewing is exceptionally pale, noticeable even on birds head-on. (Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Greylag Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Oct 2003). The two-toned underwing is diagnostic. (Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Greylag Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Apr 2003). Note the thick neck and pale head.

(Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Snow Goose Anser caerulescens Comprises two subspecies, both of which have occurred in Europe. The nominate race, known as 'Lesser Snow Goose' caerulescens breeds over most of range and is smaller and slimmer than the heavier-billed 'Greater Snow Goose' atlanticus from northwest Greenland and islands in the north of Baffin Bay. Blue-phase birds occur commonly in nominate birds but very rarely in atlanticus. Nominate-race birds winter mainly along the Gulf coast of the USA and atlanticus along the Atlantic coast between Maryland and North Carolina. In Britain there is a feral breeding population of perhaps up to 100 pairs, with a feral flock on the Inner Hebrides and other smaller feral flocks in Norfolk and Hampshire. Birds considered to be genuine migrants do occur, and are usually considered to be those occurring with carrier flocks of Greenland White-fronted Geese in northwest Scotland and Ireland. Lesser Snow Goose: Islay, Argyll (Mar 2002).

Blue morphs have head, upper neck and tail tip white, bill and legs are pink (Photo: Russell Slack) Lesser Snow Goose: Islay, Argyll (Mar 2002). Blue morphs have obvious white fringes to the elongated tertials. (Photo: Russell Slack) Greater Snow Goose: N. Uist, Outer Hebrides (Dec 2003). A 1st-winter with wild Greylag Geese has some of the best credentials for a wild bird. (Photo: Martin Scott) Greater Snow Goose: N. Uist, Outer Hebrides (Dec 2003). 1st-winters are variably mottled, with greyish crown and neck and duller bare parts — adult plumage is attained through the winter. (Photo: Martin Scott) Greater Snow Goose: Martin Mere, Lancs (Nov 2002). A feature of Snow Goose is the black 'grinning patch' along the cutting edge of the bill. (Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Greater Snow Goose: North Slob, Co. Wexford (Jan 2004).

Rusty stains on the head and neck are frequent within the natural range and might be a good pointer towards a genuine vagrant. (Photo: Paul and Andrea Kelly) Ross's Goose Anser rossii Breeds on the tundra of the Northwest Territories of Canada, and winters mainly in California with smaller numbers along the Gulf coastline. Wintering birds were formerly rare on the Atlantic coast, but are increasing. Within the range, formerly a rare species, the population has increased considerably since the 1960s. As this species is commonly kept in captivity the origin of individuals is always difficult to ascertain. A known pair of escapes from Britain attempted to breed in Iceland and returned with wild geese to Scotland. Recent sightings with wild geese in Norfolk and Scotland are considered by many to relate to wild birds, as are some earlier records of birds with wild geese. Ross's Goose: Pennington, Gtr Manchester (Oct 2001). This feral bird illustrates the smaller bill, lacking the 'grinning patch' of Snow Goose. (Photo: Sue and Andy Tranter) Ross's Goose: Wighton, Norfolk (Nov 2001).

The grey wash on the hindneck and scapulars indicates a 1st-winter bird. (Photo: Paul Hackett) Ross's Goose: Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway (Dec 2002). The small size of this species is evident in comparison with other small geese, such as Barnacle Geese. (Photo: Paul Bowerman) Ross's Goose: Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway (Nov 2002). (Photo: John Molloy) Russell Slack Tuesday 10th February 2004 (A list of references will be added at the end of Part Two of the 'Winter Geese' article, which deals with 'Branta' geese.) Related pages Pink-footed goose - Norfolk Wildlife Trust Pink-footed goose Update: 18 January 2017 Following the flooding a...

Features Flight of pink-footed geese by Kevin Woolner 1/10 Pink-footed geese in flight by Elizabeth Dack 2/10 Pink-footed geese at Horsey by Paul Taylor 3/10 Pink-footed geese at Fleggburgh by Paul Taylor 4/10 Pink-footed geese in flight by Nick Appleton 5/10 Pink-footed geese at Weybourne by Julian Thomas 6/10 Pink-footed geese coming in to land by Kevin Woolner 7/10 Pink-footed geese flying by Elizabeth Dack 8/10 Pink-footed geese by Matt Livesey 9/10 Pink-footed goose at Horsey by Paul Taylor 10/10 Pink-footed goose Anser brachyrhynchus The pink-footed goose is perhaps the defining bird species of north-west Norfolk in winter. It occurs here in cackling flocks of tens of thousands each winter, with further large flocks found in the Thurne Valley in the Broads. Our wintering birds largely breed in Iceland and return to Norfolk each autumn.

By early spring they have gone, leaving coastal fields and marshes quiet once more. Conservation status The pink-footed goose is included on the amber list for the UK because a globally significant non-breeding population occurs in localised habitats. Norfolk is among the most important areas of the country for this fascinating migrant. Details Did you know? Until well into the twentieth century the pink-footed goose was considered a subspecies of the bean goose. When geese come to land they often lose altitude by banking sharply from side to side. This action is known as whiffling. How to recognise The pink-footed goose is very often identified by sound before being seen. The species’ cackling call is shriller than the resident greylag goose’s call. Pink-footed geese are relatively short-necked and compact and have distinctively small bills. In muddy conditions and through winter mist it can be very difficult to see the species’ characteristic pink legs and pink-blotched bill. A better way of identifying the pink-footed goose, especially in flight, is by its brownish neck and underparts contrasting with a soft grey back and upper wings.

Be aware that identifying pink-footed, bean and white-fronted geese in winter flocks may be tricky, both on the ground and in flight. Where to see The pink-footed goose forms large flocks in winter, especially in north-west Norfolk and parts of the Broads. Lady Ann’s drive at Holkham is probably the best-known site for watching these remarkable birds, but they can be seen in many places along the coast and inland in north-west Norfolk, including Docking, Holme and Snettisham. In the Broads, pink-footed geese are most often seen around Horsey and Martham in the Thurne catchment. When to see Taiga Bean-Goose Taiga Bean-Goose Hover over to view. Click to enlarge. Taiga Bean-Goose Anseriformes The swans, geese and ducks are mid-sized to large birds most commonly found on or near water. Most have plump bodies, long necks and short wings. Most feed while on the water, diving or merely tilting their bodies so that their heads and necks are submerged to search for fish, plants and invertebrates.

Washington representatives of the order all belong to one family: Family: Anatidae The waterfowl family is represented in Washington by two distinct groups—the geese and swans, and the ducks. Whistling-ducks are also considered a distinct subfamily, and, although they have not been sighted in Washington in many years, Fulvous Whistling-Ducks have been recorded historically in Washington and remain on the official state checklist. All members of the waterfowl family have large clutches of precocial young. They hatch covered in down and can swim and eat on their own almost immediately after hatching. Status: Maps General Description This large goose is rather similar to the Greater White-fronted Goose but has a larger, dark bill with an orange band, no white frontal patch, and a uniformly lighter-gray belly. The Taiga Bean-Goose breeds right across Eurasia from Norway to Siberia, and winters south to southern Europe and China, favoring open grassland and farmland. It is a rare but regular visitor to the Aleutians and the Bering Sea region of Alaska during its northward migration in spring but has been seen only extremely rarely elsewhere in North America.

The Pacific Northwest has two records, both from Grays Harbor County, Washington: a bird that made a brief appearance at Bowerman Basin on 26 April 1993, and another that stayed for nearly two weeks in December 2002 in Hoquiam, where it was seen closely by many observers, and photographed. This second bird was identified as belonging to the subspecies A.f. middendorffii that breeds in eastern Asia. Another similar, closely related goose, the Pink-footed Goose (Anser brachyrhyncus), has been recorded in Washington. In November 2003 two Pink-footed Geese visited the same location in Hoquiam that hosted the Bean Goose the year before. The Pink-footed Goose breeds along the east coast of Greenland, on Iceland, and on Svalbard, winters in Great Britain and other countries around the North Sea, and is a rare vagrant to Atlantic Canada and the northeastern United States. However, its appearance in the West was unprecedented, causing the Washington Bird Records Committee to reject the record as possibly representing escaped birds from a waterfowl collection.

Pink-footed Goose is somewhat lighter brown than Taiga Bean-Goose and slightly smaller, with pink rather than orange legs and a smaller bill with a pink band. Revised June 2007 Pink-footed Goose (gobirding.eu) Pink-footed Goose More gulls coming soon... More on their way... This site is not complete: only European species in the groups shown above will be found in a search. More are on their way... Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus The Pink-footed Goose population overwintering in Norfolk has been increasing for many years now and reached an all-time high of over 150,000 in December 2004. Changes in EU funding policy have affected sugar-beet growers in Norfolk and as a result the species favourite food is likely to become harder to find in future, so it is quite possible that these numbers may begin to fall again now. This page was getting quite long so I've moved some of the photos to a second page .

Pink-footed Goose, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 29th March 2008 Pink-footed Goose, Snettisham (Norfolk, UK), 17th March 2009 Pink-footed Geese, Amner (Norfolk, UK), 8th January 2009 Pink-footed Geese, Amner (Norfolk, UK), 20th November 2009 Pink-footed Goose, Docking (Norfolk, UK), 1st November 2004 juvenile Pink-footed Geese, Thornham (Norfolk, UK), 8th December 2008 Pink-footed Goose, Shernborne (Norfolk, UK), 5th December 2011 - what a difference a few seconds and a shifting cloud can make!

Pink-footed Goose, S of Brancaster Staithe (Norfolk, UK), 29th November 2004 Pink-footed Goose, S of Brancaster Staithe (Norfolk, UK), 2nd December 2004 Pink-footed Geese, New Holkham - Wells (Norfolk, UK), 2nd December 2006. The left hand bird appears to show a pale eye-ring in this photo although this was not noticed in the field.

Pink-footed Geese, north of Sedgeford (Norfolk, UK), 12th November 2009 juvenile (left) and adult (right) Pink-footed Geese, between Docking and Brancaster (Norfolk, UK), 16th November 2006 Pink-footed Geese, Holkham (Norfolk, UK), 27th January 2012 Pink-footed Geese, S of Brancaster (Norfolk, UK), 13th November 2007 Pink-footed Geese, Amner (Norfolk, UK), 19th November 2009 - one or two birds in here appear to have orange bills but they were getting their bills muddy when drinking and I think they're just affected by that. See below for more "orange"-billed birds.

Pink-footed Geese, Amner (Norfolk, UK), 17th November 2009 Pink-footed Goose, Shernborne (Norfolk, UK), 5th December 2011 Pink-footed Geese with orange bare parts A small proportion of Pink-footed Geese show orange legs, inviting confusion with Tundra Bean Geese . Typically they have rather duller orange legs than Bean Geese, but individuals with bright orange legs do occur occasionally. In addition, the legs of typical pink-legged individuals can appear a dull orangey-brown when stained with mud. Pink-footed Goose with orange legs, between Shernborne & Amner (Norfolk, UK), 31st October 2003 Pink-footed Goose with dull orange legs, N of Stanhoe (Norfolk, UK), 12th December 2003 Pink-footed Goose with orange legs, S of Brancaster Staithe (Norfolk, UK), 13th October 2006. Pink-footed Goose, N of Stanhoe (Norfolk, UK), 15th November 2003.

This bright orange-legged individual kept close company with an adult Greenland White-fronted Goose with exactly the same colour legs, prompting speculation that it may in fact be a hybrid. However in every other respect it appeared identical to a typical Pink-footed Goose and, being an adult, there is no reason to think that its association with the Greenland White-front was an offspring relationship. Pink-footed Geese with dull orange legs, between Shernborne & Amner (Norfolk, UK), 11th January 2011 - top two photos show an adult, lower two show a juvenile - both birds were together Pink-footed Geese with dull orange legs, Shernborne (Norfolk, UK), 9th December 2011 - three of a group of four adults all of which had the same pinky orange leg colour Pink-footed Geese are much less variable in their bill colour (although the pattern of dark and pink is highly variable). Occasionally individuals may appear to show a wholly or partly dull orangey-coloured bill, however close examination will normally show that this effect is just a consequence of a thin coating of mud (see photos below).

Pink-footed Goose with thin layer of mud making its bill appear dull orangey, Ringstead (Norfolk, UK), 4th November 2005. Pink-footed Geese with thin layer of mud making their bills appear dull orange, south of Brancaster (Norfolk, UK), 30th November 2006. There is some variation in tone of pink with some birds showing a slight orangey hue, but truly orange-billed Pink-footed Geese are exceptional. I study tens of thousands of Pink-footed Geese each winter and although I have seen many orange-legged individuals I had never encountered one with a genuinely orange bill until November 2006 when I discovered the following bird which showed both orange legs AND an orange and black bill. The orange on the bill had a slight pinkish tone so it wasn't always obvious, but it was clearly orange and most of the time it stood out from the accompanying pink-billed individuals.

The possibility of it being a Tundra Bean Goose was considered, but in every respect apart from the bare part colouring it appeared to resemble a normal Pink-footed Goose - in particular the white at the tip of the tail (shown in the right hand photo below) was too extensive for Bean Goose. Tundra Bean Geese frequently overwinter among the Pink-footed Goose flocks in Norfolk, sometimes remaining with them well into the spring. It must be very likely that a few remain with them during the breeding season and hybrids should be expected. I believe there is a strong chance that this bird was such a hybrid, although I cannot rule out the possibility that it was simply a Pink-footed Goose with unusual bare part colouration. Pink-footed Goose or hybrid Pink-footed Goose x Bean Goose (with Pink-footed Geese), between Docking and Brancaster (Norfolk, UK), 17th November 2006. The bill colour of the following bird was clearly more orangey than the legs, or most Pink-footed Geese's bills, but not as orange as the putative hybrid above. A second bird in the same group was similar.

Pink-footed Goose, Thornham (Norfolk, UK), 9th December 2008 Aberrant Pink-footed Geese Leucistic Pink-footed Geese occur quite frequently, while piebald individuals can also be encountered. The latter have varying amounts of whitish plumage, typically including the primaries and usually bands across their underparts (ranging from an almost entirely white belly to a slight streak across the breast). Whilst a small amount of white around the bill is not at all abnormal, the extent of pale around the face of one of the individuals below is exceptional - this individual also showed a faint pale eye-ring. piebald Pink-footed Goose, Stanhoe (Norfolk, UK), 17th November 2003 leucistic Pink-footed Geese, west of Burnham Market (Norfolk, UK), 8th February 2014 The following birds were small, skinny and extremely dark but also had varying amounts of red on the underparts. Both of these birds were in one flock, though they were not together. I have seen birds with similar red markings in previous winters.

I've come up with a number of possible, although not very convincing, explanations ranging from red dye used for colour-marking, blood, erythrochroism and contamination - the last was favourite and it's now been suggested to me that red diesel may be the contaminant. small dark and red-plumaged Pink-footed Geese, Thornham (Norfolk, UK), 4th December 2008 Neck-ringed birds A large number of Pink-footed Geese have been marked by way of a conspicuous neck ring bearing unique two or three character codes. A few carry leg rings bearing similar codes. If you submit details of ringed individuals you will receive in return a thorough report of all sightings of the individual goose since it was first ringed. Pink-footed Goose "AAT", south of Brancaster (Norfolk, UK), 30th November 2003 Hybrid Geese (gobirding.eu) HYBRID GEESE More gulls coming soon... More on their way... This site is not complete: only European species in the groups shown above will be found in a search. More are on their way...

Hybrid Geese Geese hybridise readily, in captivity, among feral populations and among wild bird populations. Identifying hybrids is fraught with difficulties. Not only are they highly variable but they do not always simply show a mix of each parent species' features. Regular visitors to this page will notice far fewer photos than before - it was getting unwieldy so I am now only showing examples of each hybrid here, with links to separate pages that contain more details and more photos of each type of hybrid. (Greylag Goose x Swan Goose) x Mute Swan domestic goose (Greylag Goose x Swan Goose) x Mute Swan, Wool (Dorset, UK), 24th October 2010 For lots more photos and a full account of this very unusual bird, see the Swoose page . Swan Goose x Greylag Goose domestic Swan Goose x Greylag Goose hybrid, Graffham Water (Cambridgeshire, UK), 24th Spetember 2011 Domestic geese are descended from either Greylag Goose or Swan Goose, or both.

Technically those that have both species in their ancestry are hybrids, but as it is often impossible to determine either way I have treated all domestic geese together on the domestic goose page . Swan Goose x Bar-headed Goose possible Swan Goose x Bar-headed Goose, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 25th February 2007 For more photos and comment on this bird, see the Swan Goose hybrids page . Swan Goose x Snow Goose possible domestic Swan Goose x Snow Goose hybrid, Whitlingham CP (Norfolk, UK), 5th February 2011 For more photos and comment on this bird, see the Swan Goose hybrids page . Swan Goose x Barnacle Goose possible Swan Goose x Barnacle Goose, Welney (Norfolk, UK), 28th March 2009 For another photo and comment on this bird, see the Swan Goose hybrids page .

Pink-footed Goose x Tundra Bean Goose Pink-footed Goose or hybrid Pink-footed Goose x Tundra Bean Goose, between Docking and Brancaster (Norfolk, UK), 17th November 2006 For a second photo and and some coment on this possible hybrid, see the Pink-footed Goose page (and scroll down). Lesser White-fronted Goose x Ross's Goose probable Ross's Goose x Lesser White-fronted Goose hybrid, Whitlingham CP (Norfolk, UK), 17th January 2011 For lots more photos and comment on this bird, click here . Lesser White-fronted Goose x Barnacle Goose probable Lesser White-fronted Goose x Barnacle Goose, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 27th October 2007 For more photos and comment on this bird, click here . White-fronted Goose x Greylag Goose probable White-fronted Goose x Greylag Goose, Stiffkey Fen (Norfolk, UK), 24th November 2013 For more photos and comment on this bird, see the White-fronted Goose x Greylag Goose hybrid page .

White-fronted Goose x Bar-headed Goose presumed White-fronted Goose x Bar-headed Goose, St James's Park (Greater London, UK), 15th July 2013 For more photos and comment on this bird, click here . White-fronted Goose x Barnacle Goose presumed White-fronted Goose x Greylag Goose, Flitcham (Norfolk, UK), 15th January 2004 presumed White-fronted Goose x Greylag Goose, Raynham Lake (Norfolk, UK), 10th February 2012 For more photos and comment on these and other birds, click here . Greylag Goose x Canada Goose presumed Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 8th March 2008 presumed Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid (with Canada Goose), Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 20th September 2008 presumed Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid, Salthouse (Norfolk, UK), 28th October 2009 For lots more photos of these and other individuals, click here .

domestic goose x Canada Goose presumed (Greylag Goose x domestic Swan Goose) x Canada Goose hybrids, Thetford (Norfolk, UK), 9th February 2013 presumed (Greylag Goose x domestic Swan Goose) x Canada Goose hybrid, Ythan Estuary (Aberdeenshire, UK), 18th March 2014 probable domestic Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 6th March 2004 probable domestic Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid, Flitcham (Norfolk, UK), 1st October 2003 probable domestic Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid, Abberton Reservoir (Essex, UK), 21st August 2004 presumed domestic Greylag Goose x Canada Goose hybrid, Sevenoaks (Kent, UK), 20th December 2014 probable (Greylag Goose x domestic Swan Goose) x Canada Goose hybrids, Drift Reservoir (Cornwall, UK), 1st October 2005 For more photos of these and other individuals, click here .

Greylag Goose x Barnacle Goose presumed Barnacle Goose x Greylag Goose, Holkham Park (Norfolk, UK), 22nd November 2004 For more photos and comment on this bird, click here . Ross's Goose x Emperor Goose probable Ross's Goose x Emperor Goose, S of Brancaster Staithe (Norfolk, UK), 30th November 2004 This bird was identified at the time as a Ross's Goose x Pink-footed Goose hybrid by many observers but it now seems more likely to have been a Ross's Goose x Emperor Goose. For lots more photos and comment on this bird, click here .

Ross's Goose x Barnacle Goose presumed Ross's Goose x Barnacle Goose hybrid, Snettisham (Norfolk, UK), 17th March 2009 probable Ross's Goose x Barnacle Goose hybrid, Blakeney Collection (Norfolk, UK), 12th February 2011 probable Ross's Goose x Barnacle Goose hybrid, Salthouse (Norfolk, UK), 4th December 2010 probable Ross's Goose x Barnacle Goose hybrid, Burnham Overy (Norfolk, UK), 12th January 2013 probable Ross's Goose hybrid, between Amner and Shernborne (Norfolk, UK), 9th January 2011 For more photos of these and other individuals, click here . Snow Goose x Barnacle Goose probable Snow Goose x Barnacle Goose hybrid, Buckenham (Norfolk, UK), 1st January 2010 For more photos and comment on this bird, click here .

Canada Goose x Barnacle Goose Canada Goose x Barnacle Goose (with Barnacle Goose), Hickling Rushill Scrape (Norfolk, UK), 10th August 2009 Canada Goose x Barnacle Goose, Burnham Overy (Norfolk, UK), 5th June 2015 For more photos of this bird, click here . Cackling Goose x Barnacle Goose Cackling Goose (probably Richardson's) x Barnacle Goose, between Amner and Shernborne (Norfolk, UK), 12th January 2011 For more photos and comment on this bird, click here . Barnacle Goose x Red-breasted Goose presumed Red-breasted Goose x Barnacle Goose, Whitlingham CP (Norfolk, UK), 1st July 2011 For more photos of this bird, click here . Dark-bellied Brent Goose x Red-breasted Goose presumed Dark-bellied Brent Goose x Barnacle Goose, Oare Marshes (Kent, UK), 26th December 2012 For more photos of this bird, click here .

Black Brant x Dark-bellied Brent Goose Black Brant x Dark-bellied Brent Goose hybrid, Wells (Norfolk, UK), 22nd November 2006 For more photos and comment on this and other individuals, see the Black Brant page . Dark-bellied Brent Goose x Pale-bellied Brent Goose Pale-bellied Brent Goose x Dark-bellied Brent Goose hybrids (with Dark-bellied Brent Geese), Salthouse (Norfolk, UK), 18th December 2014 possible hybrid Pale-bellied Brent Goose x Dark-bellied Brent Goose, Burnham Overy (Norfolk, UK), 3rd January 2011 For more photos and comment on these, see the Pale-bellied Brent Goose page .

Egyptian Goose x domestic Mallard, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 21st September 2007 Egyptian Goose x domestic Mallard, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 9th August 2008 Egyptian Goose x domestic Mallard, Swanton Morley (Norfolk, UK), 24th March 2008 For more photos and comment on this group of 4 birds, click here . Many thanks to Joern Lehmhus, Carl Gunnar Gustavsson and several others for their valuable input on the hybrids shown on this page. Pink-footed Goose - Whatbird.com Pink-footed Goose Ducks, Geese and Swans (Anatidae) Code 4 Copyright © 2004 - 2017 Mitch Waite Group PHOTOS Photos we are missing. CONSERVATION STATUS The Pink-footed Goose has an enormous range estimated at 100,000 to 1,000,000 square kilometers.

This bird can be found in the UK, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greenland, Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Svalbard and Sweden. It prefers a grassland, pastureland and marine locations, including tide pools and rocky shoreline. The global population of this bird is estimated to be around 280,000 individual birds. It is not believed that the population trends for this species will soon approach the minimum levels that could suggest a potential decline in population. Due to this, population trends for the Pink-footed Goose have a present evaluation level of Least Concern. IBIRD EXPLORER GENERAL posted on May 13, 2013 07:47 AM PHOTO SHARING AND DISCUSSION posted on January 27, 2016 01:59 PM BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY posted on June 12, 2016 09:03 PM SUMMARY Overview Pink-footed Goose: Short-necked goose with blue gray mantle and wing coverts, white belly, dark brown head, neck. Pale feather tips produce barring on flanks and upperparts. Pink legs and feet.

Bill is pink with a brown tip and base. Swift direct flight with strong wing beats. Flies in V formation. Range and Habitat Pink-footed Goose: Breeds in eastern Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard. It is migratory, wintering in northwest Europe, especially Great Britain, the Netherlands, and western Denmark. Rare accidental to Newfoundland and northern Atlantic Coast. Found in open tundra and rocky country, outcrops and crags. SONGS AND CALLS "ung, ung", "wink, wink" INTERESTING FACTS In 1951, Sir Peter Scott and his team made an expedition to Iceland to seek the breeding grounds of the Pink-footed Goose, which they were successful in discovering. The main threat to Pink-footed Geese is the destruction of breeding habitat, particularly proposed hydroelectric schemes in Iceland which may flood large areas used for breeding, feeding and molting. They are more susceptible to disturbance than Greylag Geese and it is interesting that populations in these areas declined during the first half of the 20th century due to increased disturbance and wildfowling but increased significantly when the areas in question became nature reserves.

A group of geese has many collective nouns, including a "blizzard", "chevron", "knot", "plump", and "string" of geese. SIMILAR BIRDS About this North America Map This map shows how this species is distributed across North America. FAMILY DESCRIPTION Ducks, Geese and Swans (Anatidae) ORDER The ANSERIFORMES (pronounced an-ser-ih-FOR-meez), one of the oldest avian orders, is composed of three families and includes the bizarre and noisy screamers of South America, the odd Magpie Goose of Australia, and the globally distributed swans, geese and ducks. FAMILY TAXONOMY The swans, geese and ducks are grouped in the Anatidae (pronounced ah-NAH-tih-dee); a bird family with one hundred sixty-four species in forty-eight genera, various members of which can be found on all continents. NORTH AMERICA The Anatidae are represented in North America by sixty-nine species in twenty-three genera (including the extinct Labrador Duck).

Members of this well known bird family include the graceful, long-necked swans, familiar geese of farm fields and golf courses, and the many species of ducks. KNOWN FOR While all species are known for their association with aquatic habitats, Canada Geese are also known for their aggressive behavior when guarding their nests and young. After the breeding season, Canada Geese become better known for the "V" shaped flocks they form during migration. PHYSICAL Swans, geese, and ducks are large birds with long necks (longest in swans, shortest in ducks) and short tails. All species have webbed feet suited to their aquatic environments and distinctive flat bills - except for the mergansers with their thin, serrated bills ideally suited for catching fish. COLORATION Although swans and geese are mostly white, brown, and black, many ducks showcase several shades of grays, browns, and blacks combined with fine barring and streaking to result in a variety of beautifully patterned plumages for which females of the species are well known. Males in breeding plumage are more boldly patterned and often have iridescent blue or green on the head.

Both sexes usually show a spot of color in the wing known as a "speculum". GEOGRAPHIC HABITAT Swans, geese, and ducks occur throughout North America wherever aquatic habitats are found. While geese and some ducks are often found along the shoreline, species that feed on underwater vegetation such as swans and dabbling ducks prefer calm water with depths suited to the length of their necks. In deeper waters, the mergansers, scoters, and diving ducks occur. Boldly-patterned Harlequin Ducks swim in the swift rivers and turbulent seashores of the Pacific Northwest and some areas of the northeastern U.S. and Canada. MIGRATION A highly migratory family, most species migrate to open, ice-free water in sheltered bays and marshes of the southern United States with some reaching Mexico and Central America. HABITS Members of the Anatidae flock together after breeding in large, multi-species groups at sites with good, safe foraging. At such sites, scoters, Canvasbacks, and other diving ducks dive for mussels in the deep sections while dabblers such as Gadwall and Northern Shovelers forage on the surface and in the shallows.

On the shore, grazers such as geese and the American Widgeon forage on grass. CONSERVATION Populations of two Alaskan diving ducks, the Steller's and Spectacled Eiders, are threatened for reasons unknown; possible causes include changes in their habitats, nest predation by ravens and gulls, hunting, and the on-going effects of lead poisoning. The reasons why the Hawaiian Goose, and the Laysan and Hawaiian Ducks are endangered are much better understood; however after nearly going extinct, populations have stabilized but unfortunately don't have much room for growth in the limited amount of available habitat. INTERESTING FACTS The white plumage of Snow Geese and Tundra Swans sometimes takes on a dirty, rusty-brown appearance. The birds aren't actually dirty but do show rust-colored highlights from foraging in the iron rich environments of the far north. Regarding the well-known description of the sound made by a duck as a "quack," duck species in North America also variously whistle, squeak, click, and grunt. TERMINOLOGY Pink-footed Goose, Anser brachyrhynchus - Birds - NatureGate © Copyright: Images: Jari Peltomäki .

Recording: Jan-Erik Bruun. All rights reserved. Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus Family: Waterfowl – Anatidae Appearance: A grey goose, distinguishable in good visibility conditions by the shape and colour of its beak. Size: Length 61–76 cm (24–29.5 in), wingspan 137–161 cm (53.5–63 in), weight 2.8–3.5 kg (6–7.7 lb). Nest: Low pile of plant material on dry land. Breeding: 3–5 eggs incubated for 26­–27 days. Goslings learn to fly within about 56 days. Nests in sparse colonies in tundra regions. Does not breed in Finland. Distribution: Nests on the arctic tundra and fells of Svalbard, Iceland and Greenland. Winters in NW Europe mainly around the North Sea. Migration: Rare passage migrant in Finland, though occurrences have become more frequent in recent decades. Can be seen on autumn migration in Sept–Oct, and in greater numbers in April–May, often among flocks of other grey goose species.

Diet: Various aquatic and shore plants. Also feeds on fields of stubble in wintering areas. Calls: Reminiscent of honking calls of Bean Geese, but higher pitched. Pink-footed Geese closely resemble Bean Geese, and were earlier considered as a subspecies. Their beaks are stubbier than those of Bean Geese, and coloured blackish and pink instead of orange. Though their heads and necks are darker than those of Bean Geese, their backs are paler, which is a useful distinguishing feature for mixed flocks in flight. They have pink legs, compared to the orange legs of Bean Geese. Young birds resemble young Bean Geese, though their beaks are clearly shorter. Other species from the same genus Bar-headed Goose, Bean Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Greylag Goose, Lesser White-fronted Goose, Other species from the same family Pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus) - Norwegian Polar Institute Norwegian Polar Institute Red List status (Svalbard): LC - Least concern The pink-footed goose breeds in east Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard.

In Svalbard, it is the most common species of goose and also the largest of the three species of geese that nest in Svalbard. Compared to the barnacle goose and the brent goose, the pink-footed goose is better able to protect themselves and their eggs against predators such as the arctic fox. This enables the species to breed further inland than the other two. Pink-footed goose. Photo: Tore Nordstad / Norwegian Polar Institute Pink-footed goose in other languages Pink-footed goose in other languages Latin French Oie à bec court The pink-footed goose is the largest of the three species of geese that nest in Svalbard. It has grey-brown plumage and generally looks similar to the small bean goose (A. fabalis), but pink-footed geese have a shorter neck and bill and pink legs. The pink legs can be difficult to see at a distance or in poor light. Like other grey geese the upper-part of the wings contrasts deeply with the light front and the dark fore-wings, which can be seen clearly when the birds are in flight. They are 60–75 cm long and weigh 2.2–2.7 kg.

The sexes look virtually identical. Juveniles resemble the adults, though the former has more mottled plumage and the legs are often yellowish. The sounds made by pink-footed geese have a higher tone than those of the bean goose or the greylag goose (A. anser); most often it emits disyllablic notes. Distribution The pink-footed goose breeds in east Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard. In Svalbard, it is the most common species of goose. They nest primarily in western Svalbard, mostly in the large fjords of Spitsbergen. They are scarce in the eastern parts of the archipelago, but they do occur on the western parts of Edgeøya, Barentsøya and Nordaustlandet as well as in the north of Spitsbergen. A small population breeds on Bjørnøya. Svalbard pink-footed geese comprise a separate population from this species in other areas; the Svalbard pink-foots winter in Denmark, the Netherlands and Belgium. They migrate southwards via the Norwegian mainland to autumn staging areas in Denmark and the Netherlands. Pink-footed geese from Greenland and Iceland winter in the British Isles.

There is a small exchange of individuals between the two populations, especially in severe winters. The pink-footed goose arrives in Svalbard during the two first weeks of May, when there is still extensive snow cover. It leaves the archipelago in September-October. Ecology The pink-footed goose nests on small islands off the coast as well as in inland tundra areas. The species breeds either as isolated pairs or in loose colonies. High concentrations of nests are found at the base of steep grassy slopes, especially close to seabird colonies. Flocks of juveniles and moulting adults are found along the coast of Svalbard during summer. The staging areas during migration and their wintering areas are usually cultivated agricultural land or shore-flats. Pink-footed geese are herbivores, which utilize both the green and root parts of plants. They appear to actively select nutritious food. This species must build up considerable energetic reserves during winter and summer in order to complete their long migrations in spring and autumn, respectively. Compared to the barnacle goose and the brent goose , the pink-footed goose is better able to protect themselves and their eggs against predators such as the arctic fox.

This enables the species to breed further inland than the two other species of geese in Svalbard. Life history and reproduction The nest is placed on a ledge along a mountain slope or on some other point of elevation in the terrain that provides a good view of the surroundings. Former nest sites are re-used, and these become recognizable because their elevated rims become vegetated. The nest scrape is lined with plant material and large amounts of down. During the pre-nesting period the females feed intensively to build up the fat reserves. Egg-laying commences during the first days of June. The normal clutch size is four (but it can range from three to five). The eggs are white, but often become a dirty yellow-brown during the 26–27 days incubation period. Only the female incubates, while the male remains nearby guarding his mate. The young abandon the nest soon after hatching and are fledged about eight weeks later. After hatching the adults moult their plumage and lose the ability to fly for several weeks while their flight feathers regrow. Families stay together until the northward migration the following spring. Most birds become sexually mature when they are three years of age.

The oldest pink-footed goose registered in Norway (including Svalbard) is 22 years. Management status and monitoring The Svalbard pink-footed goose population has increased considerably over recent decades. Annual counts made at their wintering areas during October/November indicate that the population was 81,500 individuals in spring 2013. The Svalbard population is hunted in Svalbard, mainland Norway and Denmark during the autumn. The harvest in Svalbard is quite low, but the total harvest is significant. The pink-footed goose is quite timid and abandons the nest when disturbed by humans. When the nest is unprotected the eggs are an easy target for arctic foxes and glaucous gulls. During the moulting period the geese occur in large groups that are very wary. They can be alarmed by helicopters at distances up to several kilometres away and by people moving about in the moulting areas on foot or in motorized vehicles. When disturbed they tend to swim far out to sea for security (or they will run off on land). If such escapes are frequently required it can reduce their condition and put them at greater risk during migration.

Question: Snow, Bean, White-fronted, and Pink-footed are species of which bird?
Answer: Goose