Brant (Branta bernicla)
A small goose found along the coast of Canada in winter migrating North in Summer. The goose has a characteristic white ring around the neck. Feeds mostly on eelgrass.
๐ซ๐ท | Bernache cravant |
๐ฉ๐ช | Ringelgans |
๐ฒ๐ฝ | Barnacla carinegra |
Taxonomy | |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
How to Identify
I know of three different geese in eastern Canada. Brant is most similar to the Canada Goose. I identify Brant by the characteristic white ring around the black neck. The head of the Brant is completely black while the head of the Canada Goose is black with white cheeks.
Click on photo to enlarge.
Characteristics
Length | 55-66cm |
Weight | 0.9-2.2kg |
Wingspan | 106-121cm |
Clutch Size | 3-5 eggs |
Incubation | 23-24 days |
Fledging | 40-50 days |
Sexual Maturity | 2-3 years |
Source | Wikipedia |
Videos
Videos are hosted on YouTube. Click on a thumbnail to watch it.
Where and When to Spot
I saw flocks of Brants along the coast at Tadoussac in mid spring. I assume that later of the year they migrate North as in Summer, I haven't seen Brants in Tadoussac anymore.