Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Red-breasted goose
Scientific name: Branta ruficollis
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: ANATIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 15.05-31.07
Gestation: 25-28 jours
Births: 01.06-31.07
Habitat:
Arctic coastal tundra and wetlands
Description:
The red-breasted goose is a small migratory goose (55–65 cm wingspan) with contrasting black-and-white plumage and a bright russet breast. It breeds in Arctic coastal tundra near waterways and winters in temperate wetlands of Europe and Asia. During the breeding season, males and females actively defend their nesting territory with head-forward displays and harsh calls.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the red-breasted goose at sunrise or sunset from a low hide in the tundra using a telephoto lens of ≥300 mm. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze flight and a shallow depth of field to isolate the contrasting plumage. Maintain at least 20 m distance to avoid disturbing the birds.
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