How to identify

The White-fronted Goose is a grey goose, bigger than a Mallard and smaller than a Mute Swan. Adults have a large white patch at the front of the head around the bill and bold black stripes on the belly. The legs are orange and Siberian birds have pink bills, while Greenland birds have orange bills. This species does not breed in the UK. Two types visit the UK in winter – birds that breed in Greenland and birds that breed in Siberia. Our current wintering areas need protection, including avoiding drainage of traditional wintering areas in southern England.

Call

White-fronted Goose

Matthias Feuersenger / xeno-canto

Key

  1. Resident
  2. Passage
  3. Summer
  4. Winter
* This map is intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.
  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Where best to see them

Key facts