Hybrid Goose?

[Ben]

Hi everyone,

I came across these two geese in a large cackling flock this morning at the GBHNR. They were associating with a Greater White-Fronted Goose that was also in the flock.



I think they look similar to the one pictured here which they think is a Canada x Snow. www.onthewingphotography.com/wings/portfolio-items/canada-x-snow-goose-hybrid-in-morning-light/?portfolioCats=3655

What are your thoughts?

[Dave]

Hi Jon. Great sighting of an interesting bird. Looks to me there may be some White-fronted genes in them. I would guess White-fronted x Canada
Sure would make me do a double take. Trying to turn it into an Emporer Goose or something else but can’t quite do it. 🤪

[Gord]

Hybrid waterfowl can be tough to determine exactly what's going on. The size suggests Cackling is a part of the equation and they do nest far north where the Snow and Greater White-fronts nest as well. It is interesting how dark the bodies are when the White-front and of course the Snows would contribute lighter pigments.

The observation of being with a White-front is useful as last year's families do stick together until spring and it can be possible, with some observation, to detect family units among a flock of geese.