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Until 1983, this species was considered to be two species -- snow and blue goose. Although very different in appearence, they are just color morphs. Because Ohio lies along the eastern edge of the range of lesser snow geese, we get relatively few birds. An incredible exception was a flock of 150,000 in Mahoning County in October, 1952.
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Snow Goose
Chen caerulescens
At-a-Glance
• Peak Breeding Activity: June
• Incubation: 23-25 days
• Clutch Size: 4-7 eggs
• Young Fledge: 45-49 days after hatching
• Typical Foods: plant matter and aquatic invertebrates |
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Description
The snow goose is smaller than the Canada goose and occurs in two color phases. In the snow, or white phase, the body, wings, and tail are white and the wing tips are black. In the blue phase, the body is bluish-gray and the head is white. In both phases, the bill and feet are a dark color. There is also a noticeable "laughing patch" on bill (the black color surrounding the base of the bill, which resembles a smile).
Habitat and Habits
Two races of snow geese are recognized: the greater snows along the Atlantic Coast and the lesser snows elsewhere on the continent. In Ohio, some snow geese overwinter in the western Lake Erie marshes, normally as singles or small flocks. They frequently forage in crop fields, shallow wetlands, and sometimes roost on lakes. Snow geese are vocal, making a loud nasal trumpeting call that is distinctive.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
These colonial nesters lay their eggs in shallow depressions in the ground. The young are precocial and both parents feed and care for them. |
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