December 15th 2006. Turner's Falls, MA. Cackling Goose Branta hutchinsii. Form uncertain. This tiny goose was present this afternoon on the power canal amongst an enormous flock of Canada Geese (1,000+). Its features were a little different to other Cacklers that we've seen at Turner's this fall. Firstly, it was very small, perhaps the smallest individual to date. It was also dark and seemed to lack the pearly gray appearance that we've noted in other Cacklers. However, on looking more closely pearl gray feather centers could be seen on the upperwing coverts. Scaly, buffy tipped fringes to the mantle feathers and some of the coverts led me to believe that this was a first-year bird. It also had a distinctly odd head and bill shape, with a more sloping forehead and longer bill than might have been expected. Also of interest, the neck sock was not completely black especially on the neck sides and forehead. I wondered if this might also be a sign of immaturity? All in all, a little bit odd but I think another Cackling Goose, maybe a young Richardson's. Other birds on the power canal this afternoon included a juvenile Snow Goose and the usual female Barrow's Goldeneye and Ruddy Duck. Images taken through Canon Powershot A540 through Swarovski HD telescope. |
 The Canada Goose to the right of center had a badly deformed bill. Note the scaly appearance of the feathering on the Cackling Goose in front.   This shot shows the grayish 'dusting' on the forehead and neck sides. Rather odd.    Cackling Goose far left. Note the curious head and bill profile of this individual. Absolutely dwarfed by the massive Canada Goose in the center.   The only shot of the upperwing.  Snow Goose - juvenile. |