Lesser white-fronted goose

Lesser white-fronted goose

Description

The lesser white-fronted goose is the smallest of the 'grey geese' of the genus Anser, growing to just 53–66 cm with a wingspan close to 130 cm. It is best told apart from the similar greater white-fronted goose by its shorter pink bill, a bold white forehead blaze that reaches higher between the eyes, and a striking yellow ring around each eye. Small as it is, it is a tireless migrant that crosses thousands of kilometres each year between its Arctic breeding grounds and its southern wintering sites.

Habitat

It breeds on open Arctic and subarctic tundra, among low scrubby vegetation and on mountain slopes near the rivers and lakes of northern Scandinavia and Siberia. In winter it moves to steppe pastures, wetlands and the shores of shallow lakes in south-eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Diet

Almost entirely vegetarian, it grazes on grasses, sedges, herbs and fresh shoots, supplementing its diet with crop residues on farmland during the winter.

Reproduction

It forms faithful, long-lasting pairs. The female usually lays 4 to 6 eggs in a shallow, grass-lined nest on the ground and incubates them alone for about 25 to 28 days. Both parents tend the downy goslings, and the family stays together until the following spring.

Lifespan

Typically 15 to 20 years in the wild, and often longer under human care.

Did you know?

It is one of Europe's most endangered birds; captive-breeding and reintroduction projects help young geese learn their migration routes from foster flocks.