October 12th 2006. Turner's Falls, MA.
(Richardson's) Cackling Geese Branta hutchinsii hutchinsii. (2).
Further images of the two birds at Turner's Falls power canal.
Seen regularly by multiple observers until October 14th.
Images taken through Canon Powershot A540 through Swarovski HD telescope.

  • Essential web-references on the identification and taxonomy of 'white-cheeked geese' :
Harry Kruger              David Sibley              Angus Wilson
  • Richardson's Cackling Goose. The following images illustrate the second bird found at Turner's Falls unless otherwise stated.







Looks distinctly pallid, almost silvery-gray in most of these shots which
were taken close to sunset. In this light the breast, especially at the base
of the black neck sock, looked distinctly sandy or tawny in tone. The lower breast was whiter.



  • Poor quality flight shot taken through binoculars at sunset. Both birds visible and identifiable looking small, short-necked and very short-billed compared to the surrounding Canada Geese.


  • Richardson's Cackling Goose alighting between two Canada Geese.

The same sandy-breasted individual shown in the images above. Looked quite sturdy when alert.


The same individual but almost in silhouette. Interesting profile especially around the head and bill.
  • Richardson's Cackling Goose. The following two shots illustrate the first of the two birds discovered at Turner's.

This bird, the first to be found at Turner's, was lighter in tone especially on the breast and had
broader pale fringes to the wing coverts. Nice size comparison with a Mallard.


The same bird (right) with Canada Geese.