Brant, Branta bernicla
Brant, Branta bernicla. Photograph taken in the coastal area of Yavaros, Sonora, April, 2018. Photograph and identification courtesy of David F Smith, Alamos, Sonora.
Background and Identification
The Brant, Branta bernicle, is a member of the Anatidae family of geese and waterfowl. Four subspecies are recognized worldwide, mainly distinguished by plumage color and characteristics. Three further subspecies of Brants are present in North America, based on genetics, location of breeding, and migrating patterns. Also known as the Brant Goose, this species is known for its distinctive appearance and migratory behavior. Many characteristics make Brants different from other geese species, such as a non-reliance on agricultural areas, longer migratory patterns, and a specific need for salt marshes containing graminoids Carex and Puccinellia to nest and raise young. Graminoids are herbaceous plants with a grass-like morphology. In Mexico, the Brant is known as Barnacla Carinegra.
All subspecies of Brants have black-colored heads, bills, breasts, primaries, tails, and legs. Males and females appear similar, a sexually monomorphic species. Males can be up to 10% heavier than females, but this difference is not usually visible in the field. Their upperparts are dark brown, and their underparts are lighter with a variable amount of white on the belly. They have a short, stubby bill and measure about 56-66 cm in length, with a wingspan of 107-122 cm. The Brant is a vocal bird, often heard making a series of soft, guttural calls.
Habitat and Geographical Range
Brants inhabit coastal and estuarine environments, preferring salt marshes, tidal flats, and lagoons. During the breeding season, they nest in the high Arctic tundra, near coastal areas where they can access food and open water. Their nests are typically built on the ground, concealed among vegetation or rocks.
The geographical range of Brants is extremely large. They are a migratory species, with subpopulations nesting in Canada, Alaska, and the United States during the breeding season and wintering in Baja California, the Puget Sound, the mid-Atlantic coastline, and Ireland.
Common Misidentifications
When distinguishing Brants from other species of geese, there are usually no troubles. The black head, white necklace, smaller size, and overall dark coloration of this goose produce a unique appearance that is unlikely to create confusion with other species of geese in the same geographical range. The Canada Goose, Branta canadensis, is the closest North American goose in appearance and relation but can be easily distinguished from Brant by their obvious white cheek patch and larger size. Canada Geese also have longer necks and lighter plumage than the Brant.
Conservation Status
From a conservation perspective, the Brant is categorized by the IUCN as Least Concern, with stable and widespread populations within its range. While their population is generally stable, they face several threats that could impact their numbers, including habitat loss, climate change, and human disturbances.