A preliminary study of the feeding of the Greenland white-fronted goose Anser albifrons flavirostris in Cardiganshire

Abstract

An investigation of feeding habits of Greenland White-fronted Geese Anser albifrons flavirostris in Cardiganshire was commenced in winter 1964-65, following a drastic decline in the population in 1962-63. A survey of feeding grounds was made in summer 1966, followed by an intensive study of feeding habits in winter 1966-67, in which the technique of feces analysis was employed. During much of the winter the preferred food plant species taken at Cors Tregaron was white beak-sedge Rhynchospora alba. Various grass species were also taken, particularly in spring. Temperature did not appear to be an important factor o feeding pattern, although there were indications that certain foodstuffs would not be readily available under severe conditions. The technique of feces analysis is discussed in relation to research into feeding habits of disturbance-sensitive species.