About Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) Danube Delta
The Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) is part of the geese family and it is the most numerous species of goose in Europe, with a population of 250 000 specimens. It is large and it is considered to be an intelligent species. It nests in the Siberian tundra and it travels 4 000 to 6 000 km in order to arrive in Romania.
The greater white-fronted goose arrives in the Danube's Delta sometime between the end of October and the beginning of November. Locals associate its arrival with the arrival of winter.
Its plumage is grey and it beak is orange or pink. The adult specimens have on their abdomens repeated wide bands drawn on their feathers. Also, on their forehead, between the beak and the top of their head, they have a white spot.
This species flies alongside the red-breasted goose, in huge flocks. Some of the experienced adults are selected as leaders, which take care of the flock. They fly in 'V' shaped flocks. The formation is led by the leader birds, followed by the young birds. At the end of the flock are the adult birds. During flight, the geese communicate with each other.
The greater white-fronted goose feeds on barley, wheat and rape fields located near the lagoons. Sometimes they fly up to 30 km in search of food.
Its natural enemies are prey birds, the jackal and the fox. Vulnerable birds are attacked especially in the feeding areas.