Snow Goose

Snow geese are strongly migratory waterfowl occurring in white and dark blue-gray color forms. They breed in large colonies on Arctic tundra, selecting sites near marshes, ponds, rivers or coastal habitats. During migration and winter they gather in enormous flocks around wetlands, estuaries, grasslands and agricultural fields. Adults typically pair for extended periods, and family groups remain associated during portions of their seasonal movements. (Animal Diversity Web)

The species is primarily herbivorous, using a powerful bill to dig roots and underground plant parts from mud while also grazing on leaves, grasses and sedges. Migrating and wintering birds consume aquatic plants, wild rice and waste grain such as corn, oats and wheat. Females prepare shallow ground nests lined with vegetation and down, incubating the eggs while males remain nearby and guard the nesting area. (Animal Diversity Web)