Anser albifrons
Size:
66–76 cm
(26–30 in)

Two races of the White-fronted Goose regularly occur in the
British Isles: the European White-front (Anser a. albifrons)
and the Greenland White-front (A. a. flavirostris).

The two
races are distinguishable in the field and have markedly
different winter ranges, but they are both protected in
Scotland.

The following description relates to the European
White-fronted Goose as there is no open season for Whitefronted
Goose in Scotland where the majority of the
Greenland race occurs.

Medium-sized grey-brown goose characterised by white
band at base of upper bill and black bars on belly. Amount of
black on underside very variable.

Young birds lack these
characteristics, but are normally found amongst adults.
Generally dark greyish-brown plumage, fairly long pink bill,
orange legs.

Can be confused with Pink-footed Goose (especially
immature birds), Greylag and Bean Goose (protected), but
generally distinguished by small size,uniformly dark plumage.

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