Record of the Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) on the coast of Guerrero, Mexico

Abstract

The Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) is a Nearctic migratory waterfowl (Anatidae) with breeding populations in Alaska that overwinter in northern Mexico, without records in southern Mexico. On 25 December 2024 and 6 January 2025, we observed birds at the Pacific coastal wetland of Barra de Coyuca, Guerrero. On both days, we recorded a flock of four geese that foraged and moved along the banks of the Coyuca River. We identified the species as the Greater White-fronted Goose by the characteristic white frontal patch contrasting with the brown plumage of the head, and the irregular dark brown barring interspersed with fine white bands on the back and breast. Our observation constitutes the first record of the Greater White-fronted Goose in Guerrero, expanding knowledge of the species’ distribution and migratory patterns in Mexico. This finding also highlights the importance of coastal wetlands as refuge and foraging sites for migratory birds.