October 23, 2005
Cackling Geese
A rather run-of-the-mill walk around the Arboretum was enlivened by the appearance of two Cackling Geese. Last year at almost exactly the same time I found a Cackling Goose and an immature White-fronted Goose among the hordes of feral Canadas. This year's birds were grazing away from the main goose flock, and I managed a few photos. Both birds are short-necked and show a black stripe under the chin separating the white cheek patches. One of the birds had a suggestion of a white neck collar, and at times appeared larger than the other bird (especially in the last photo). I would tentatively guess that bird one is of the 'Cackling' subspecies minima, and bird 2 is 'Aleutian' (subspecies leucopareia). Any comments welcome!
Bird 1 (minima?)
Bird 2 (leucopareia?)
Both birds together
Both birds are immature. Given the size difference and the darker color on the smaller bird, I'm convinced your analysis is correct.
Cheers,
Bruce
Hi Rich , a great pity that you are leaving California as I love your site , hope that you do as well in France .
Dave
Posted by: Dave Stone at November 18, 2005 3:51 PM