Ross's goose (Anser rossii), formerly Chen rossii, is a white goose with black wingtips and a relatively short neck. It is the smallest of the three white geese that breed in North America. It is similar in appearance to a white-phase snow goose, but about 40% smaller.

A diminutive version of the familiar Snow Goose, Ross’s Goose is also white with black wingtips but has a shorter neck and stubbier bill. These gregarious waterfowl can form huge flocks on their own, and smaller numbers also join enormous flocks of Snow Geese.

This pint-sized relative of the Snow Goose has been surrounded by mystery and surprise. Explorers recognized it as a different bird as early as 1770, but it was not described to science until 1861; its Arctic nesting grounds were not discovered until 1938.

Ross's goose (Anser rossii) is the smallest of the three white geese that breed in North America. Before the early 1900s, this goose was considered a rare species, possibly as a consequence of open hunting, but numbers have increased dramatically due to conservation measures.

The Ross' goose is a small white goose with black primary feathers. The bill is a deep reddish-pink with a paler nail and a variably bluish warty area over the base of the basal area. The legs and feet are rose-pink and the iris is dark brown.

Learn more about Ross's Goose from… Cute miniature version of Snow Goose with smaller body, shorter neck, and stubbier bill. Pay special attention to the bill: short, with a straighter border where it meets the face, a much less obvious dark “grin …

Jan 26, 2021 · Ross’s Goose, scientific name Anser rossii is a white goose with black wingtips and a comparatively quick neck and is the smallest of the three “white geese” that breed in North America. It is comparable in look to a white-phase snow goose, however about 40% smaller.

Jul 5, 2024 · Ross’s Goose might be North America’s smallest goose, but it’s got a big attitude. With its stubby pink bill and striking black wingtips, this Arctic marvel is like the James Dean of the waterfowl world – small, stylish, and always ready for adventure.

A diminutive version of the familiar Snow Goose, Ross’s Goose is also white with black wingtips but has a shorter neck and stubbier bill. These gregarious waterfowl can form huge flocks on their own, and smaller numbers also join enormous flocks of Snow Geese.

Working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.