The lesser white-fronted goose (Anser erythropus) is an extremely endangered species, the nesting population is estimated to be 0 to 5 pairs in Finland. The majority of the Scandinavian population, about 50 pairs, nest in Norway, but during the spring migration they are found on the west coast of Finland and especially in Oulu region in migratory rest areas. The aim of both the international and national management plans is to strengthen the nesting population through various measures along the species' entire migration route. On the other hand, the aim is to ensure the survival of the genome of the Fennoscandian population.

Geese farming has resulted to different degrees of crossbreeds of lesser white-fronted goose (Anser erythropus), greylag goose (Anser anser) and greater white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons). As a result of crossbreeding, plantings of geese have been abandoned. Still, e.g. in Sweden there is a small population originating from farmed geese and fugitives are also found elsewhere in Northwest Europe. Geese breed in zoos and they have been placed in other zoos, including in Finland.

When mating with a lesser white-fronted goose, the escaped crossbreeds pose a threat to the survival of the wild Fennoscandian population.

Lesser White-fronted Goose – Anser erythropus