Distribution and habitat use by Sheldgeese populations wintering in Buenos Aires province, Argentina

Abstract

The most important cereal growing area in Buenos Aires province, Argentina, is also the wintering ground for three of the sheldgeese Chlophaga spp. which migrate from the south of the country. Their presence in this area causes concern amongst farmers who believe they cause considerable damage to their crops. Two surveys were undertaken in 1983 and 1984 to obtain information on the numbers and distribution of the geese and the use of the different habitats available. Goose densities were similar in both winters (4.1 and 4.5 geese/km). The majority of the geese (88-93%) were Upland Geese C. picta whilst 6-12% were Ashy-headed. C. poliocephala and 0.1-0.3% were Ruddy-headed C. rubidiceps Geese. The latter two species were more abundant in the east of the study area. The white-breasted form of the Upland Goose was proportionately more common in the north-west whilst the barred form was found mainly along the coast. The geese showed a preference for stubble fields (wheat, maize, sunflower and sorghum) were they grazed annual rye grass and reseeded wheat, newly established pastures, where they grazed white clover, alfalfa, and fescue, and natural grassland. Therefore the situations in which sheld-geese come into conflict with agriculture are relatively few.