Barnacle Goose
NameBarnacle Goose
Common NameBarnacle Goose
Scientific NameBranta leucopsis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)130
Length (cm)63
Weight (g)1700
Plumage DetailsFeatures a white face with a black crown, nape, and neck, extending to a black breast. The back and upperwings are grey with black and white barring, while the belly and undertail coverts are pure white. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are typically loud, yelping or barking calls, often described as 'ka-ka-ka' or 'rark-rark'. They are quite noisy, especially in flocks.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic regions of Greenland, Svalbard, and Novaya Zemlya. Winters primarily in coastal areas of Ireland, Scotland, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Identifying FeaturesWhite face with black crown and neck, Black breast, Grey back with black and white barring, White belly
Description
The Barnacle Goose is a medium-sized goose known for its striking black, white, and grey plumage. They are highly social birds, often found grazing in large flocks on coastal grasslands and agricultural fields during winter.
