What is the most significant characteristic of a snow goose?

The most significant characteristic of a snow goose is its black-tipped wings. This distinctive feature helps to identify the species among other waterfowl. When observed in flight, the black tips are particularly noticeable and contribute to the bird's overall appearance, making them easily recognizable.

While a large wingspan is also a feature of snow geese, it is not as unique to them specifically as the black-tipped wings. The gray feathered body could apply to other species as well, diminishing its uniqueness. Although the honking sound is a notable characteristic, many geese make similar sounds, so it does not serve as a defining feature for identifying snow geese. The black-tipped wings stand out as the most distinctive characteristic, aiding bird watchers and hunters in distinguishing snow geese from other similar species.