Anser rossii
The Ross's Goose (Anser rossii) is the smallest goose species found in North America, a diminutive waterfowl often observed alongside its larger cousin, the Snow Goose. Adults typically measure 53-66 cm (21-26 in) in length with a wingspan of 113-138 cm (44-54 in) and weigh between 1.2-1.8 kg (2.6-4.0 lb). Its plumage is strikingly pure white, save for black primary feathers visible in flight, and it possesses a relatively short neck and a small, rounded head. A key identification feature is ...
Breeds on Arctic and subarctic tundra, often near water. Winters in temperate grasslands, agricultural fields, and wetlands, typically at low elevations.
Strictly herbivorous, feeding predominantly on various grasses, sedges, rushes, and grains. They also consume tubers, rhizomes, and waste grains from agricultural fields, primarily through grazing and grubbing.
Ross's Geese are highly gregarious birds, active primarily during daylight hours, spending much of their time foraging in fields or wetlands. Their foraging strategy involves grazing on vegetation, often grubbing for roots and rhizomes in softer ground, sometimes with their head submerged in wate...
The Ross's Goose breeds exclusively in the central Canadian Arctic and subarctic, with major colonies centered around the Queen Maud Gulf Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Nunavut, extending west to the Melville Peninsula. Post-breeding, they undergo a rapid molt before commencing their southward migra...
Least Concern
- The Ross's Goose is the smallest true goose species in North America, making its identification among large flocks a fun challenge for birders. - This species experienced one of the most dramatic population recoveries in ornithological history, rebounding from near extinction in the early 20th ...