Branta bernicla
The Brent Goose is characterised by its dark grey-brown body, black head, neck, and breast, with a distinctive white neck patch. Its compact body and short, thick neck give it a stocky appearance compared to other geese.
Males and females are largely alike in plumage, although the neck band is typically wider and more prominent in males and females are generally smaller.
Juveniles show duller plumage and less distinct neck patches. The birds' feathers may appear slightly paler during winter due to wear.
Length
55cm to 66cm
Wingspan
105cm to 117cm
Weight
1000g to 2.5kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Black Grey Brown
Secondary Colour
White
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Black
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Brent Geese breed in the high Arctic tundra of North America and Eurasia. During winter, they migrate to coastal areas in temperate regions, including the British Isles, western Europe, and both coasts of North America.
They show a strong preference for shallow marine habitats, particularly intertidal mudflats, estuaries, and coastal lagoons. They are common winter visitors to the eastern and southern coasts in the UK.
Sea level to 100 meters
Arctic, Temperate, Subarctic
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Brent Goose. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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