brant

Brant, or brant goose, refers to a small goose species known as Branta bernicla in the genus Branta. It is migratory, breeding in Arctic and subarctic tundra and spending winters in coastal marshes and estuaries. Brants feed primarily on grasses, aquatic plants, and seeds. They are among the smaller geese, with a dark plumage and a compact build, and are distinguished from larger geese by their relatively short neck and flight silhouette.

Brant is also a surname and a given name in English-speaking countries. As a surname it appears in various cultures and has been borne by many individuals in public life. As a given name, it is less common but occurs in contemporary naming.

In Canada, Brant County in Southern Ontario and the city of Brantford derive their name from Joseph Brant (Thayendanegea), a Mohawk military and political leader allied with the British during the 18th century. Brantford lies along the Grand River and was historically known as Brant's Ford.

The name Brant also appears in North American place names more broadly, reflecting historical associations with the surname. The term thus has both biological and toponymic uses.