The project aims to decrease the threats to the wild population of Lesser White-fronted Geese breeding in Sweden which include breeding in captivity to produce birds to further reinforce the wild flock and thereby strengthening the wild population.
As migration route seems to be one of the most important reasons of the decline, they have changed the flyways by using Barnacle Geese as foster parents that use a western flyway. Further operations include measures to improve geese habitats and to reduce disturbance at sites which are used by Lesser White-fronted Geese.
In addition, monitoring of the population and information activities are carried out. In 2005, new breeding population have been created based on young birds caught in Russia. The double purpose and long-term goal for this activity is to reduce possible genetic problems and to further strengthen the population with new individuals. The project is, since 2010, highly integrated in the national action plan for the Lesser White fronted Goose in Sweden.
Many of the conservation actions is supported financially by the authorities in Sweden but most of the work is carried out by volunteers.
Country: Sweden
Starting date: 1980
Species: Lesser White-fronted Goose (Anser Erythropus)
Species characteristics: Migratory species, Threatened species
Type of actions: Management of habitats and wildlife, Research and data collection
Leading partners: The work of the project rests on a foundation created by the Swedish Association for Hunting and Nordic Ark