Pink-Footed Goose

Background

The name of the Pink-Footed Goose is quite deceptive, as it is not the only goose that is pink footed. The Greylag Goose also shares this feature. The proportions of this bird are one of the easier ways that this species can be identified. This bird has a proportionally small head, beak and legs in comparison to its body. The mostly black bill also has distinctive pink markings.

Habitat

As a migratory bird, this species is divided into two primary populations. The first resides in Iceland and Greenland and migrate to Britain, and the Svalbard population migrate to Denmark. Other smaller populations do exist with different migratory patterns. For the best chance to see these birds, they tend to prefer salt marshes, tundra and large lakes.

Diet

This particular goose is herbivous meaning that it feeds on plant matter such as stems, roots and leaves. Berries and seeds also constitute part of this species’ diet.

Predators & Threats

There are no direct threats to the Pink-Footed Goose, however, like most bird species bio-accumulation of toxins can cause mortality. The main predator of these animals are Arctic Foxes and Red Foxes.

Facts

• Groups of these birds can be as large as 5000 individuals.
• Females of this species lay 3-6 eggs during mid to late May.

Best Time to Look

A winter visitor to Britain, they are likely to be seen between October and March. However, there are populations that reside in the UK during the summer period though it less likely to see them.