Brent Goose

Description:

The Brent Goose is a small, stocky bird that belongs to the goose family. In appearance, they are less bulky than other geese, with a small bill and a short neck. They have a black head and neck, and a contrasting white patch on their face. Their body is mostly grey-brown in color and their belly is paler. They have short, dark legs and a stubby tail.

What they eat:

The Brent Goose is a herbivorous bird and feeds mainly on eelgrass, marine algae, and other seagrasses. They also feed on various terrestrial plants and agricultural crops.

Habitat:

Brent Geese inhabit coastal areas, salt marshes, beaches, and estuaries. During winter, they are often found feeding in fields and pastures close to the coast. They prefer areas with shallow water where they can easily reach the seagrass beds.

Size and Wingspan:

Brent Geese are relatively small geese, measuring 55-66 cm in length and weighing between 1-1.5 kg. Their wingspan ranges from 110-135 cm.

Male Female Difference:

Both male and female Brent Geese have similar plumage, with the males being slightly larger than the females.

Where to Find:

Brent Geese can be found all along the Irish coastline, especially in areas such as Wexford, Dublin, and Galway.

What months can be found in Ireland:

Brent Geese are migratory birds and can be found in Ireland during the winter months, typically arriving in October and leaving by April.

Interesting Note:

Brent Geese are known to fly in a distinctive "V" formation during migration, making them easily recognizable in the skies. They have a distinctive, high-pitched honking call that can often be heard from a distance. Brent Geese are also a protected species in Ireland, and hunting or disturbance of their habitat is illegal.