Exploring the Diverse Geese Species of Anglesey

Anglesey, with it’s diverse habitats ranging from coastal areas to wetlands, is an ideal location for various species of geese. Here are some of the most common types found on the island.

Greylag Goose

Native Breeding Goose

• The Greylag goose is the only native breeding goose in the UK, with about 46,000 breeding pairs. They are primarily found in Scotland, coastal Wales, and east England but can be seen in lowland areas across the UK.

Appearance and Behaviour

• Greylags are large, brown-grey geese with pinkish feet and an orange bill. They are known for their late migration, often ‘lagging’ behind other species. These geese have a long history with humans, being linked to various ancient cultures.

Brent Goose

Winter Visitor

• The Brent goose, a winter visitor to the UK, migrates from Russia, Scandinavia, and Greenland. The UK sees about 100,000 Brent geese each winter, with two subspecies: the Pale-bellied and the Dark-bellied Brent goose.

Characteristics

• Smaller than the Greylag, the Brent goose is predominantly black with a white under tail and distinct black bill. They are most likely to be seen from October to March.

Barnacle Goose

Migratory Patterns

• The Barnacle Goose primarily arrives in the UK from Greenland, Svalbard, and northern Russia. The UK hosts approximately 58,000 from Greenland and 33,000 from Svalbard and northern Russia during winter.

Unique History

• Barnacle geese are small and robust, with long, perilous migration journeys that were once shrouded in mystery. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that they hatched from barnacles at sea.

The geese of Anglesey are a testament to the island’s rich biodiversity and the importance of it’s habitats for migratory birds. From the native Greylag to the migratory Brent and Barnacle geese, these birds add to the natural charm of Anglesey, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.