The Greater White-fronted Goose is usually seen in Edmonds every year but can be hard to find. Typically it is seen when a formation of these geese is flying over the Sound in spring or fall migration but occasionally it is seen on the ground. It flies in wavering lines in contrast to the vee formation of the Canada Goose. It can frequently be seen with Snow Goose flocks.

This goose is about two thirds the size of the largest Canada Goose. Its pinkish bill and orange legs and feet make it easy to spot when it is mixed in a feeding flock of Canada Geese. Over the last week or two, three of these geese have been seen feeding in the grass in a field at 8th & Caspers, at Civic Field, and flying over the marsh.

A long-distance migrant, the Greater White-fronted Goose breeds in summer in northern latitudes where it populates marshes, prairies, lakes and bays, as well as tundra. It winters mostly west of the Mississippi River in open country, where agricultural fields are near extensive shallow waters for roosting. In winter this goose can be found in Southwest Washington, from the prairies of the South Sound to the Columbia River lowlands, among other locations in the West. Spring migration takes place from late February to early May. Fall migration occurs from late August to early January, peaking in October and November.

The Greater White-fronted Goose does not breed until its third year. The nest is a shallow depression on the ground and is lined with plant materials and down. Typically there are 3-6 eggs and only the female incubates them for 22-27 days. The young can walk and swim shortly after hatching. The parents lead them to feeding areas where the young feed themselves. First flight happens about 40 days after hatching. The young remain with their parents for the first year and then often loosely associate with them for several years, until they are of breeding age.

The call of the Greater White-fronted Goose bears little resemblance to the honking of a Snow Goose or Canada Goose. You can listen to its two- and three-note laugh here: https://www.xeno-canto.org/149379.

– By Carol Riddell

Carol Riddell, author of our new “Bird Lore” feature, manages the bird education displays, on behalf of Pilchuck Audubon Society and Edmonds Parks & Recreation, at the Olympic Beach Visitor Station.