The pink-footed goose is a medium-sized goose, smaller than a mute swan but bigger than a mallard. It is pinkish grey with a dark head and neck, a pink bill and pink feet and legs. This species does not breed in the UK, but large numbers of birds spend the winter here, arriving from their breeding grounds in Spitsbergen, Iceland and Greenland. Numbers in England are on the increase, particularly in Norfolk, probably due to better protection at winter roosts.
Key ID Features:
Similar to Greylag and Bean Goose but distinguished by shorter neck, dark round head and small, dark bill with pink band.
Pale to rich pink legs.
Overview
Scientific name: Anser brachyrhynchus
Family: Swans, ducks and geese (Anatidae)
Where to see them:
Large estuaries, such as on the east Scottish coast, The Wash, the Ribble and the Solway, or on surrounding farmland where birds go in the day to feed.
Seen in UK:
They arrive in the UK in October and depart in April.
What they eat
Grain, winter cereals, potatoes and grass.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: Chew Valley Lakes, Somerset
Photographer: Tim Tapley
