Ross's Goose
Anser rossii
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
HabitatWetlands, playas, ponds, and crop fields
SeasonWinter visitor (November-March)
LocationHornsby Bend, Austin, Texas, Travis County, Texas
Size21-25 inches
DietGrasses, sprouting grain, and waste grain
ConservationLeast Concern (IUCN)
CameraNikon Z9Lens800mmAperturef/8Shutter1/2000ISO12800
Ross's Goose floating on the ponds at Hornsby Bend.
About the Ross's Goose
Ross's Goose is the miniature version of the Snow Goose. It is about the size of a Mallard, with a round head, a short neck, and a small, stubby bill that lacks the dark grin patch of a Snow Goose. Close views often show warty bumps at the base of the bill on older birds.
Once considered rare, Ross's Goose has increased dramatically over the last century and now winters in large numbers in Texas, usually mixed in with Snow Geese. Picking out the small, cute-faced birds in a big white flock is a favorite winter challenge.
This bird was photographed on the ponds at Hornsby Bend in Austin on November 14, 2025.
Want to see a Ross's Goose in the wild?
Join one of my guided birding tours! Fine art prints of my photos are also available.
Join one of my guided birding tours! Fine art prints of my photos are also available.
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