Brent Goose
Branta bernicla
The Brent Goose is a notable winter visitor to Britain, with large flocks seen in coastal areas, particularly in estuaries and mudflats, from September to April. They can be found in various parts of the country, including the Wash, the Fens, and the Solway Firth.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Brent Goose in the field.
The Brent Goose can be identified by its small size, dark brown to black head and neck, and a distinctive white patch on the neck, as well as its grey-brown body and black tail.
The Brent Goose is slightly smaller than a Greylag Goose, but larger than a Mallard.
The male Brent Goose has a dark brown to black head and neck, with a white neck patch, and a grey-brown body with a black tail, with no significant seasonal variation.
The female Brent Goose is similar to the male, with the same dark head and neck, white neck patch, and grey-brown body.
The Brent Goose has a high-pitched, nasal call, often transcribed as "kraa-kraa" or "krek-krek", which is usually heard from flying or alarmed birds.
Brent Geese are social birds that feed on grasses, algae, and small invertebrates, often in large flocks, and are known for their rapid, direct flight style, with their necks stretched out.
The Brent Goose can be confused with the Dark-bellied Brent Goose, but can be distinguished by its smaller size, darker head and neck, and a more restricted white neck patch, as well as the Light-bellied Brent Goose, which has a pale belly and a less distinct white neck patch.
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