Lesser White-fronted Goose Bird Details
Anser erythropus
Lesser White-fronted Goose,White-fronted Goose, Lesser White-front;
Chhota Safed-Mukhi Hans
Linnaeus, 1758
Anseriformes (DUCKS)
Anatidae
Anser
Appearance :
The Lesser White-fronted Goose is a medium-sized goose with a relatively small body compared to its relatives. It has a distinct white face patch at the base of the bill and a dark crown. The plumage is generally brownish-grey, with a lighter belly and dark speckling on the chest. The bill is shorter and more slender than that of the Greater White-fronted Goose, typically pink or orange with a darker tip.
Behaviour :
These geese are generally more solitary or in small groups compared to other goose species. They are strong fliers and exhibit a characteristic high-pitched honking sound. The Lesser White-fronted Goose is known for its sensitive and cautious nature, often avoiding human presence.
Habitat :
Breeding Habitat: Prefers tundra regions, particularly in marshes, lakes, and wet grasslands. Winter Habitat: Migrates to wetlands, rice fields, and agricultural lands in warmer regions.
Diet :
Herbivorous, primarily feeding on grasses, sedges, and other aquatic plants. In winter, they also forage in agricultural fields for cereals and grains.
Conservation Status :
Vulnerable
Distribution :
Breeds in the Arctic tundra, primarily in Northern Europe (particularly Scandinavia) and northern Russia. Migrates to parts of Western Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia.
Population Size :
The global population is estimated to be around 20,000 to 30,000 individuals, making them quite rare.
Life Span :
The average lifespan in the wild is around 10 to 15 years.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Lesser White-fronted Goose has a compact and medium-sized body, adapted for both swimming and terrestrial feeding.
- Tarsus Length: The tarsus (lower leg) length typically measures between 65 to 75 mm.
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is relatively small with a distinctive white facial patch and a dark crown. The coloration is generally brownish with lighter underparts.
- Bill: The bill is shorter and more slender than that of related species, with a pink or orange color and a darker tip.
- Bill Length: Approximately 35 to 45 mm.
Length :
The overall body length ranges from 56 to 68 cm.
Neck :
The neck is of medium length, allowing the bird to graze effectively while foraging.
Size :
Medium-sized compared to other geese, smaller than the Greater White-fronted Goose
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is relatively short and squared off, featuring brown and white coloration.
- Tail Length: Tail length is approximately 130 to 145 mm.
- Feathers: The plumage is generally brownish-grey, with a lighter belly and dark speckling on the chest. The wings have a darker coloration with pale wing bars that are visible in flight.
Weight :
The weight typically ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 kg
Wing :
The wings are broad and strong, well-suited for both short flights and long migrations.
Wing Span :
The wingspan ranges from 130 to 145 cm.
Facial Feature :
The Lesser White-fronted Goose has a distinctive white face patch at the base of the bill, with a dark crown and a generally brownish head.
Nest Details :
- Nest: Nests are built on the ground, often in wetland areas, near water bodies. They may also be located on islands to avoid flooding.
- Nest Made Up Of: The nest is constructed from grasses, sedges, mosses, and lined with down feathers for insulation and warmth.
Breeding Season :
The breeding period typically occurs from May to June
Nesting Season :
Nesting usually begins in late April to early May
Egg Color :
The eggs are generally greenish or buff in color.
Egg Length :
The eggs measure approximately 70 to 80 mm in length.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: The width of the eggs ranges from 45 to 55 mm.
- Egg Weight: The eggs weigh about 130 to 150 grams each.
Clutch Size :
The typical clutch size consists of 4 to 6 eggs, though this can vary.
No. of Broods :
The Lesser White-fronted Goose usually raises one brood per year.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts around 27 to 30 days.
Nestling Period :
Goslings are precocial and can leave the nest within 24 hours after hatching.
Vocalization :
Known for their high-pitched, honking calls, which can be heard during migration and in flocks.
Sex Demorphism :
Males are generally larger than females but have no significant visual differences.
Migration Details :
Migration Pattern:
- The Lesser White-fronted Goose is a strong migratory bird, often traveling in small flocks. They migrate in a V-formation and are known to follow traditional migratory routes.
Migration Period:
- Autumn Migration: From late September to November, they migrate south to wintering grounds.
- Spring Migration: From late March to early May, they return to their breeding areas.
Migration Route:
- Breeding Grounds: Primarily in the tundra regions of Scandinavia and northern Russia.
- Wintering Grounds: They migrate to regions in Western Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Central Asia.
