Eunoia
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Ross's Goose
Ross’s Goose is a small migratory waterfowl species that passes through southern British Columbia during spring and fall migration. While generally less abundant than Snow and White-fronted Geese, it is recognized as a managed hunting species in certain areas where populations are monitored to ensure sustainability.
Yellow Listed
Human Health Hazard
Conservation Status
Syilx
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Description
Ross’s Geese are small white geese, measuring 56–66 cm in length with a wingspan of 115–135 cm and weighing 1.4–2.5 kg. They have bright white plumage with black wingtips, a short stubby pink bill with a distinctive black “grin patch”, and pink legs and feet. Juveniles are duller with less defined markings but otherwise similar in shape.
Habitat
Ross’s Geese use wetlands, shallow lakes, ponds, agricultural fields, and estuaries during migration. They prefer open, flat areas near water for foraging and roosting and are often found in mixed flocks with Snow Geese.
Food
Ross’s Geese are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, sedges, grains, and aquatic plants. In agricultural landscapes, they may feed on leftover cereal crops, corn, and winter wheat, often forming dense flocks to exploit food resources efficiently.
Social System, Activity & Movements
Ross’s Geese are highly social, forming large migratory flocks that provide safety from predators and facilitate group foraging. They communicate through honks and calls and coordinate flights using V-shaped formations. Outside the breeding season, they mix with Snow Geese and other waterfowl species.
Reproduction & Parental Care
Breeding occurs in the Arctic tundra, far north of BC. Females lay 3–5 eggs per clutch, incubated for about 21–23 days. Goslings are precocial, leaving the nest shortly after hatching to feed themselves, though they remain under parental protection until able to fly at 6–7 weeks.
Natural Mortality & Predators
Predators of eggs and young include foxes, gulls, and raptors, while adults face hunting, harsh weather, and migration-related risks. Migration is energetically demanding, and many mortality events occur along flyways due to predation or food scarcity.
Credit
ChatGPT