Lesser white-fronted goose

The lesser white-fronted goose is a fascinating bird species closely related to the greater white-fronted goose. It breeds in the northernmost regions of the Palearctic. Although it is rare in Europe, concerted efforts are underway to reintroduce it to Fennoscandia. The name "lesser white-fronted goose" derives from Latin and Greek, meaning "red-footed goose."

During the winter, these geese migrate further south in Europe and occasionally appear in unexpected locations such as Great Britain and India. For example, one was sighted at WWT Slimbridge in England, which stimulated new conservation initiatives.

These geese are particularly striking, with bright orange legs and a distinctive white face marked by black belly bars. They are often kept in wildfowl collections, leading to occasional escapes. Adults feature a yellow eye-ring and a white facial blaze that extends to the crown.

Sadly, the lesser white-fronted goose is an endangered species. Conservation programs are vigorously working to reintroduce them into the wild. They are also protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

The Fennoscandian population of these geese is genetically unique, comprising about 20 breeding pairs or 60-80 individuals. They breed in Northern Norway and winter in Greece, Bulgaria, and Turkey. Another group breeds in Northern Sweden, consisting of approximately 15 breeding pairs or 40-50 individuals. This group migrates westward, wintering in the Netherlands and Germany. According to the IUCN Red List, this population is critically endangered.