Snow Goose vs Ruddy-headed Goose

The Snow Goose and Ruddy-headed Goose can be distinguished by their plumage and geographic range. Snow Geese exhibit both white and blue morphs, while Ruddy-headed Geese have a distinctive rufous head and neck. Additionally, the Ruddy-headed Goose is found primarily in southernmost Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands, unlike the more widespread Snow Goose.

Look for the rufous head and neck of the Ruddy-headed Goose, which is a key distinguishing feature from the Snow Goose. Also, consider the location: if you are in southernmost Argentina, Chile, or the Falkland Islands, you are more likely observing a Ruddy-headed Goose.

Snow Geese have two morphs: a white morph with entirely white plumage and a blue morph with dark body and white head. In contrast, Ruddy-headed Geese have a rufous head and neck, with a more uniform body coloration.

Ruddy-headed Geese are confined to open country in southernmost Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands, whereas Snow Geese are more widespread and often found in large flocks during migration.