IDENTIFY BARNACLE GOOSE - WWT SLIMBRIDGE

BARNACLE GOOSE (Branta leucopsis)

©Nigel Key Barnacle Goose (Slimbridge May 2012)

The Barnacle Goose belongs to the Branta genus which consists generally of species with largely Black plumage, distinguishing them from the Anser genus who largely have Grey plumage.

The Barnacle Goose is fully protected, though it may face threats from farmers as it winters in grassland and pastures which are used by livestock for grazing. Due to its current numbers the Barnacle Goose is classified as Least Concern.

The Barnacle Goose can be distinguished from the Canada Goose by it's full White face rather than just White cheeks.
(Compare the two Geese.)

Hear the Barnacle Goose's Call:-

Conservation Status

Size
550mm to 700mm (22" to 28")

Appearance - Male
The male has a White face and Black head, Black bill, Black upper breast with a White belly. The wings and back are Silver/Grey with Black and White bars. The underwings and rump patch are Silver/Grey.

Appearance - Female
Same as the male.

Habitat
Crags, Rocky Outcrops, Marshes and Coastal Grasslands.

Diet
Grasses, Leaves and Seeds.

Breeding Time
May to June

Nest
Their nests are built high on mountain cliffs in a shallow depression.

Eggs
Quantity: 3 to 5
Colour: Creamy White.

PHOTOGRAPHS



26/05/17	05/10/17	30/11/17



16/08/16	05/10/16	05/10/16



28/07/12	04/09/13	04/09/13



26/05/12	28/07/12	28/07/12



15/08/11	24/03/12	26/05/12



22/08/10	09/04/11	09/04/11

Photos copyright of ©Nigel Key Click for larger image

Related Links:-

Barnacle Goose v's Canada Goose

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.

LOCATION



	Breeding Habitat
	Eastern Greenland, Spitzbergen and Islands of North Siberia.
	Winter Habitat or Migration Area
	Winter in the Hebrides and Western Ireland, Scotland and Netherlands.