Rare geese arrive early on island

The geese travel from the arctic (Pic courtesy of Mike Lane)

A flock of some of the world's rarest birds have arrived early for their annual winter stay off the Northumberland Coast.

About 200 light-bellied brent geese have so far landed at the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve on Holy Island.

The birds traditionally arrive in November after travelling from the Arctic island of Svalbard.

Natural England said the early arrival could be linked to less food being available at Danish wintering sites.

The world population of light-bellied brent geese is estimated at 6,000 and about half normally travel to Northumberland before heading back to the Arctic in March.

Reserve manager Andrew Craggs said: "The fact that such a large proportion of the world population comes here makes the presence of these geese a significant wildlife highlight for the North East of England.

"The geese are also a draw to birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts who visit the area throughout the winter which helps to extend the tourism season in the region."