Snow Goose

Chen caerulescens

Snow Goose. Photo:Ministere du Tourisme du Quebec, Jardin Botanique de Montreal

This species, which breeds on the high arctic tundra, occurs in two colour "phases" or varieties. The white phase group exhibits a white chest and neck and a brown back when young, then acquires an all-white body and head and dark-coloured primary feathers. The "blue" phase begins with all-brown colouring, then darkens throughout the body but develops and white head and neck.

Distribution of Snow Goose in Canada