Satellite transmitters have given us important knowledge about the movements of the Lesser White-fronted Goose during winter time. But, this knowledge has not any value in itself. The results must be followed up with conservation measures to protect the lessers at site. The Norwegian scientist are therefore co-operating with organisations and authorities in many countries. This co-operation has led to the establishment of a nature reserve at the Kanin Peninsula and improved conservation measures in both Hortobágy National Park in Hungary and in the Evros Delta in Greece. This does of course inspire for further work to save the Lesser White-fronted Goose from extinction.
There are still many unknowns about the habitat use and migration routes. After the use of satellite transmitters through a EU-Life sponsored project, we now know that failed breeders migrate early to Russia to moult. Therefore is the result of the failed breeding season not only the loss of production, but also a heightened risk of mortality due to much higher hunting pressure in Russia and Kazakhstan. Therefore, it would be valuable with conservation measures within the breeding areas to improve the breeding success, since this ultimately also has a positive effect on the survival of the Lesser White-fronted Goose adults.
The time is running out for this little goose. If we cannot turn the negative population trend, it is likely that you have in this present exhibition, seen the last pictures taken of wild lesser white-fronted geese walking on Norwegian ground!
