Wildlife

Wild Greenland White-Fronted Goose Welfare

Greenland white-fronted geese winter in Ireland and western Scotland in declining numbers, requiring international conservation action.

Key Facts

Greenland white-fronted geese have declined by over 50% since the 1980s
They breed in West Greenland and winter exclusively in Ireland and Scotland
Breeding ground changes in Greenland are driving population decline
Wintering ground disturbance from shooting was historically a welfare concern
International agreement has banned shooting of Greenland white-fronts in Ireland and UK

Welfare Considerations

Greenland white-fronted goose welfare benefits from shooting cessation in wintering areas. The continuing population decline reflects breeding ground problems in Greenland rather than wintering area issues. International conservation addressing Greenland habitat is required for welfare and conservation outcomes.

What You Can Do

Support international conservation projects for Greenland white-fronted geese
Contribute to goose monitoring recording Greenland white-front wintering numbers
Advocate for continued no-shooting protection for this declining subspecies