LOK CM (1982) The distribution of Barnacle Geese Branta leucopsis in the northern Delta area. LIMOSA 55 (4): 109-114.

Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis In the Delta area Barnacle Geese Branta leucopsis visit several feeding areas in short succession. As a result numbers at these sites fluctuate markedly. Although a large number of feeding areas is used, most of the grazing is concentrated on a few areas. The three most heavily grazed areas on the southern bank of the Haringvliet showed a simultaneous increase or decrease of the total usage per winter (fig. 4a, b, c). It is suggested that the food supply of the favouri te feeding areas varies from year to year. The yearly variation in feeding intensity of Barnacle Geese found on these favourite sites, is probably a result of this. The pastures that are most heavily grazed, are characterized by a nutritious sward of fertile soil. In contrast to areas less intensively grazed, the short swards in the favourite areas may be stimulated to regrow and contain little dead material due to previous grazing. This may partly explain why these areas remain attractive throughout the season when compared to other areas with a greater biomass

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