Rare goose species seen again after gap

SAMSUN - Anadolu Agency

The white-fronted goose species has been spotted in the Kızılırmak delta for the first time since 1997, bringing many bird watchers to the region.

The lesser white-fronted goose (Anser Erythropus), which was seen for the last time in Turkey in 1997, has been photographed in the Kızılırmak delta, located within the borders of the Bafra, 19 Mayıs and Alaçam districts in the northern province of Samsun.

Wildlife expert and bird observer Emin Yoğurtçuoğlu said lesser white-fronted geese, which had not been observed in Turkey for years, were photographed among greater white-fronted geese, which are more commonly observed.

He said the population of this species was estimated to be between 18,000 and 22,000 all around the world. 

This rare species, which reproduce in the most northern parts of the Asian and European lands, spend winters in Greece and Balkan countries, and in the north of Turkey, Iran, Iraq and Azerbaijan.

“This endangered species is observed with satellite transmitters. It is known that this bird makes a stop around Lake Van and goes to Iraq,” Yoğurtçuoğlu said.