Genus BERNICLA or BRENT GEESE. 



Type BERNICLA BRENTA. 



Bernicla of F.Boie(i822). — The birds comprising the present 

 genus are characterised by their short subconical bills, much 

 shorter than the head. The inner edge of the mandibles is 

 nearly straight, and the lamelte are concealed or nearly so. The 

 strongly contrasted colours of the plumage are also very 

 characteristic. The wings are long and ample and more pointed 

 than in Anser ; the tail is short and rounded. The bill is higher 

 than broad at the base, the unguis ovate ; nostrils oval and 

 nearly central. Three toes in front webbed ; hind toe small, 

 elevated. 



This genus is composed of about ten species and subspecies 

 confined to the northern portions of the Palaearctic and Nearctic 

 regions, slightly more widely dispersed during winter. Four 

 species and subspecies are visitors to the British Islands, but 

 none breed within our area. 



The Brent Geese are maritime in their haunts during winter, 

 but in summer little is known concerning them. They are birds 

 of sustained and rapid flight, and swim and walk with ease. 

 Their notes are loud and sonorous. They subsist chiefly on 

 vegetable substances. They are said to make bulky nests on the 

 ground, and their eggs are numerous, and creamy white in colour. 

 They are monogamous, and probably pair for life. During 

 winter they are remarkably gregarious. Their flesh is not 

 unpalatable. 



