Brant Goose

The Brant, or Brent Goose (Branta bernicla), is a small member of the genus Branta, known for its compact size and short, stubby bill. Adults typically measure between 55 to 66 cm in length, span 106 to 121 cm across the wings, and weigh between 0.88 to 2.2 kg. The species is characterized by a strikingly short tail—the shortest among geese—with a pure white under-tail and a contrasting black tail.

Identification Tips

To identify the Brant Goose, look for its black head and neck, which feature small white patches on either side of the neck. The species is divided into three subspecies, each with distinct plumage variations. The Dark-bellied Brant Goose (B. b. bernicla) has a dark grey-brown body with little contrast between the flanks and back. The Pale-bellied Brant Goose (B. b. hrota) displays a marked contrast with lighter grey-brown underparts. The Black Brant Goose (B. b. nigricans) is more uniformly dark with a prominent white flank patch and larger white neck patches.

Habitat

The Brant Goose is a coastal bird in winter, favoring tidal estuaries where it feeds on eelgrass and sea lettuce. During the breeding season, it inhabits low-lying wet coastal tundra, often near small ponds.

Distribution

The Brant Goose breeds on the high-Arctic tundra and winters along temperate-zone sea-coasts. The Dark-bellied subspecies winters in Western Europe, the Pale-bellied in the Atlantic coast of the U.S., and the Black Brant along the west coast of North America and East Asia.

Behaviour

Brant Geese maintain loose family-groups outside the breeding season, often staying with others of the same subspecies. They exhibit strong site fidelity for both breeding and wintering areas.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Brant Goose include a series of low, guttural notes. Their calls are an essential part of their social behavior, particularly during migration.

Breeding

The Brant Goose nests in elevated locations near water, with a bowl-shaped nest lined with grass and down. They breed in the Arctic tundra, with each subspecies favoring specific regions.

Similar Species

The Brant Goose can be confused with the Barnacle Goose, but the latter has a different neck pattern and is generally found in different habitats.

Diet and Feeding

Brant Geese primarily feed on eelgrass and sea lettuce. They have adapted to include sea lettuce in their diet following a decline in eelgrass. In recent times, they have also been observed feeding on agricultural land, consuming grass and winter-sown cereals.

Conservation status

The Brant Goose is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. However, changes in habitat and food availability continue to be monitored to ensure the species remains stable.