Barnacle Goose (Branta leucopsis) Science Article 6
abstract
The within season site tenacity of staging Barnacle Geese Branta leucopsis was investigated using two years of observations of individually colour ringed birds in Schleswig Holstein/Germany. Arrays of observations of individual geese show that some birds move among areas in Schleswig Holstein within seasons. Movements occur over a considerable geographical range and are not consistent with the major migratory direction of the season. Exchanges among areas occur by small groups of birds moving among the major wintering flocks. Individuals differ in degree of mobility; the tendency to move is independent of age and pair bond status of birds. Different individual movement strategies may exist in the population.
Ganter B., ARDEA 82 (2): 231-240