Prev    SNOW GOOSE    Next

SNOW GOOSE (Anser or Chen cerulescens)

©Nigel Key Snow Goose (Slimbridge September 2018)

The Snow Goose, also known as the Blue Goose, is native to North America.

The Snow Goose is a member of the Chen genus and has two sub-species, namely the Greater Snow Goose and the Lesser Snow Goose.

Snow Geese are visitors to the British Isles and are regularily seen amongst Barnacle Geese, Brent Geese and White-Fronted Geese.

The Snow Goose is similar to the Ross's Goose in appearance except it is much larger and has a less rounded head.
(Compare the two Geese.)

   Hear the Snow Goose's Call:-
Conservation Status


Size
630mm to 790mm (25" to 31")

Appearance - Male
The male has White plumage with Black wing tips. The bill is Pink and the legs and feet are Red/Pink.

The male Blue morph has Blue/Grey plumage with Black wing tips. The bill is Pink and the legs and feet are Red/Pink.

Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male.

Habitat
Wetlands, Marshes and Lakes.

Diet
Aquatic Plants, Roots, Stems, Grasses, Grain and Rice.

Breeding Time
Late May to Mid August.

Nest
The nest is built from vegetation on a round mound.

Eggs
Quantity: 6 to 7
Average size: 82mm x 55mm
Colour: Creamy White.











Fatbirder's Top 1000 Birding Websites


PHOTOGRAPHS

Snow Goose (WWT Slimbridge May 2017) - pic by Nigel Key Snow Goose (WWT Slimbridge April 2018) - pic by Nigel Key Snow Goose (WWT Slimbridge September 2018) - pic by Nigel Key
26/05/17 20/04/18 25/09/18
Snow Goose (WWT Slimbridge August 2010) - pic by Nigel Key Snow Goose (WWT Slimbridge August 2010) - pic by Nigel Key Snow Goose (WWT Slimbridge May 2012) - pic by Nigel Key
Blue-morph 22/08/10 Blue-morph 22/08/10 26/05/12
Photos copyright of ©Nigel Key
Click for larger image


Related Links:-


Ross's Goose v's Snow Goose - www.slim-bridge.co.uk

Geese Identification - www.slim-bridge.co.uk


You can help to protect wetland habitats in the UK and around the World by becoming a member of the WWT, visit official WWT site for details.