Brant
Branta bernicla · Also known as: sea goose, American brant
Small dark sea goose. NPS describes winter flocks of hundreds off Assateague after nesting in northern Canada.
Quick facts
| Group | Waterfowl |
|---|---|
| Likelihood nearby | ★★★★☆ |
| Habitats | Coastal bays, Offshore / ocean, Assateague National Seashore, Assateague State Park |
| Seasons (this coast) | winter, fall, spring |
How to recognize them
- Small goose, black head/neck with a small white neck patch, brownish body, white undertail.
- Often in tight flocks low over bay or ocean.
Biology notes
- Winters on coastal bays and nearshore waters; grazes seagrass and marine vegetation.
- Arctic nester; Mid-Atlantic bays are key winter habitat.
Where to see them around Ocean City
- Assateague bayside and nearshore ocean (National Seashore)—scan winter bay waters.
- Sinepuxent and Isle of Wight Bays west of Ocean City on cold, calm mornings.
When to look
- Late fall through early spring; summer birds are essentially absent.
Viewing tips & etiquette
- A spotting scope helps separate distant Brant rafts from larger Canada Geese.
