Lesser White-fronted Goose
Anser erythropus
The Lesser White-fronted Goose is a rare and scarce breeder in Britain, with occasional sightings mostly during migration periods, and is more commonly associated with its breeding grounds in the northernmost Palearctic. It is a notable species among British birdwatchers due to its elusiveness and limited appearances in the country.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Lesser White-fronted Goose in the field.
This species can be identified by its distinctive white forehead patch, dark brown head, and pale grey-brown body, which distinguish it from other goose species. Its pinkish-orange bill and legs are also key identification features.
The Lesser White-fronted Goose is smaller than a Greylag Goose, but larger than a Mallard, making it a medium-sized waterfowl species.
The male Lesser White-fronted Goose has a pale grey-brown body, white forehead patch, and a dark brown head and neck, with no significant seasonal variation in its plumage.
The female plumage is similar to that of the male, with the same colour patterns and markings, making it difficult to distinguish between the sexes based on plumage alone.
The call of the Lesser White-fronted Goose is a high-pitched, yelping sound, often transcribed as a loud, sharp "kyek-kyek-kyek" or "kek-kek-kek".
This species is a grazer and feeds on various plants, including grasses, leaves, and aquatic vegetation, often in wetland areas and grasslands. It is a migratory species with a distinctive flight style, often flying in V-formation with other geese.
The Lesser White-fronted Goose can be confused with the Greater White-fronted Goose, but can be distinguished by its smaller size, darker head, and more restricted white forehead patch, as well as its higher-pitched call.
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