Cackling Goose
NameCackling Goose
Common NameCackling Goose
Scientific NameBranta hutchinsii
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)114.5
Length (cm)65.5
Weight (g)2200
Plumage DetailsBlack head and neck with a distinctive white chinstrap extending from behind the eye to under the throat. The body plumage is primarily brown, with lighter flanks and a pale breast, contrasting with white undertail coverts. It has a black bill and black legs.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are higher-pitched and more rapid 'kek-kek' or 'cackling' calls, distinct from the deeper honks of the larger Canada Goose.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatstundra, wetland, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, including Alaska and northern Canada. It migrates south to winter across much of the United States and parts of Mexico.
Identifying Featuressmall size, black neck with white chinstrap, short bill, high-pitched cackling call
Description
This small goose is characterized by its black head and neck with a prominent white chinstrap, contrasting with its brown body plumage. It is often observed grazing in open grassy areas, wetlands, and agricultural fields, typically in flocks.
