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Greater White-fronted Goose Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A medium-sized, heavy-bodied goose with a small bill, thick legs, and a short neck.

    Relative Size

    Larger than a Ross's Goose, smaller than a Canada Goose.

    Relative Sizegoose or largergoose-sized or larger

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 25.2-31.9 in (64-81 cm)
      • Weight: 68.8-116.8 oz (1951-3311 g)
      • Wingspan: 53.1 in (135 cm)

Regional Differences

The tule subspecies of the Greater White-fronted Goose is larger and darker than other Greater White-fronted Geese. It is restricted to areas around Cook Inlet, Alaska. The Greater White-fronted Goose subspecies that breeds in Greenland usually winters in Ireland and Scotland. It occasionally turns up on the East Coast of North America. It is slightly larger than the typical American form and has a brighter orange (less pink) bill, but telling them apart is difficult.