ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Greater White-fronted Goose

Greater White-fronted Goose

Greater White-fronted Goose This Arctic-nesting goose is a relatively rare visitor to Ohio, and is often found in association with Canada geese. We generally only get single birds or small groups, but occasionally a larger flock occurs, such as the 97 that were at Big Island Wildlife Area on March 16, 1985.


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Greater White-fronted Goose
Anser albifrons

At-a-Glance

• Incubation: 23-25 days

• Clutch Size: 5-6 eggs

• Young Fledge: 45 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: plant matter and aquatic invertebrates
Description
This goose is smaller than the Canada goose. Like the snow goose, it also has a laughing patch on its bill (the black color surrounding the base of the bill, which resembles a smile). The adult has a gray neck and black splotches on its belly, although they may appear brownish gray at a distance. The juvenile is a dusky color with a light bill and feet.

Habitat and Habits
The white-fronted goose migrates chiefly in the Central and Pacific flyways but are also present in the Mississippi. They are rare in the Atlantic Flyway. They are often seen in croplands such as old corn fields; marshes, and the borders of ponds. The most distinctive characteristic of the V-shaped flocks of this bird is the high pitched call kow-kow-kow-kow.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
This species breeds in Alaska and nothern Canada. The nest is grassy depression in tundra, lined with down.