Monday, December 3, 2007 - Red-breasted Goose in Hungary
Red-breasted Goose breeds in Arctic Russia and spends the winter along the Black Sea. Some 70% of the population winters in Romania and Bulgaria.
Being on the westernmost boundaries of its winter distribution Hungary never sees such high numbers of this enigmatic species. But sometimes nice flocks can be seen with up to 72 specimens a few years ago and up to 20-30 each year at some of the good sites.
These handsome geese arrive to Hungary mid October and stay until late March mid April depending on the weather. If the winter is mild they stay for the winter month but in case of severe cold and deep snow they move further south.
They are mostly mixed with Greater White-fronted Geese but sometimes stay in a single species flock.
The best sites for them are Lake Fertő, Tata and Kis Balaton in Western Hungary, Kiskunság, Lake Tisza, Hortobágy and Biharugra in Eastern Hungary.
This year's biggest flock was observed at the Begécs Fishponds close to Biharugra with 24 birds followed by the flock of 17 at Tata.
Photo taken by Bence Kókay
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