Habitat Use by Greater Snow Geese During the Brood-Rearing Period

Abstract

Observations of habitat use by the Greater Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens atlanticus) were conducted at Jungersen Bay, northern Baffin Island, from 27 July-17 August 1981. Density of geese using the study area was estimated at 425 birds/sq km. The average of 2.8 young per family did not change during our study. Non-breeding geese were first observed in flight on 1 August and were seen regularly until 13 August. Three types of habitat used by geese during the brood-rearing period were distinguished: tidal marshes dominated by Carex subspathacea and Puccinellia phryganodes; wet moss-covered meadows with up to 5 cm of standing water, dominated by Carex stans, Dupontia fisheri, Calamagrostis neglecta, and Arctagrostis latifolia; and, around ponds, bands of vegetation 1-2 m wide dominated by Carex stans. The three most important species of monocots grazed by geese were Puccinellia phryganodes, Carex subspathacea, and C. stans. It is unlikely that habitat and food resources are limiting factors for Greater Snow Geese in the High Arctic during the brood-rearing period. We suggest that potential breeding areas for this species be identified and given special protection.

Key words: Greater Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens atlanticus), habitat use, brood, Baffin Island, grazing, monocots, wet meadows