White-Fronted Goose

Background

The White-Fronted Goose is named as such due to the white patch that surrounds the bill. Whilst predation on this species is quite high from humans and other predators they are not considered vulnerable to extinction due to their wide geographic range. They have an incredible distribution of more than 20,000 km² around the globe.

Habitat

These animals are found across the United Kingdom with the exception of the most north east parts of Scotland. They can also be found patchily distributed from the northern coast of France and from Italy to Turkey. Generally found on rough grasslands. They breed on Artic tundras. There are some subspecies which migrate to northern America.

Diet

A herbivore they feed on grasses and aquatic plants.

Predators & Threats

Whilst these are quite large birds they do come under attack from a number of predators such as; humans, skunks, foxes and large birds like ravens, crows, eagles and magpies.

Facts

• White-Fronted Geese make pair bonds which can last for years. Pairs and their families migrate together.
• Whilst commonly found together, there are a number of subspecies of this particular goose, which is quite unusual.

Best Time to Look

November - March