Branta hutchinsii
The Cackling Goose, *Branta hutchinsii*, is a diminutive but robust member of the Anatidae family, closely related to its larger cousin, the Canada Goose. Standing at a length of 55-70 cm (22-28 in) with a wingspan of 107-134 cm (42-53 in) and weighing 1.5-3 kg (3.3-6.6 lb), it is noticeably smaller and daintier than most Canada Geese, possessing a shorter neck and a smaller, more triangular bill. Its plumage mirrors that of the Canada Goose, featuring a striking black head and neck with a cr...
Primarily inhabiting arctic and subarctic tundra, coastal wetlands, and grasslands during breeding, these adaptable geese utilize agricultural fields, lakes, and estuaries during migration and winter, generally at low elevations.
Their diet consists mainly of various grasses, sedges, grains, and agricultural waste crops, which they obtain by grazing on land or dabbling in shallow water.
Cackling Geese are highly social, diurnal birds, often forming immense flocks during migration and winter, sometimes associating with Canada Geese. They are primarily grazers, foraging in fields and shallow water by clipping vegetation with their bills. Monogamous and forming strong pair bonds th...
The breeding range of the Cackling Goose spans the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, including Alaska, the Canadian Arctic islands, and coastal Greenland. Different subspecies have distinct breeding grounds; for instance, the Aleutian Cackling Goose breeds primarily in the Aleutian I...
Least Concern
- The Cackling Goose was only officially recognized as a distinct species from the Canada Goose in 2004, after extensive genetic and morphological studies. - There are four recognized subspecies of Cackling Goose, each with slightly different sizes, calls, and breeding ranges. - The 'Least' Cackl...