The Tundra Bean Goose (Anser serrirostris) is a migratory bird species found across northern regions of the globe. Its brownish-grey plumage blends with its environment, making it a common sight in various landscapes during its seasonal movements.
Distinctive Features
The Tundra Bean Goose is a large waterfowl, typically ranging from 68 to 90 centimeters (27–35 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 140 to 174 centimeters (55–69 inches). Its body is predominantly brownish-grey, with darker upperparts and lighter underparts. The head and neck tend to be darker brown, often appearing rounder than the neck.
A distinguishing feature is its bill, which is black at the base and tip, with an orange band across the middle. This orange patch is usually restricted to a narrow band, covering less than half the bill. The legs and feet are bright orange. While males average around 3.2 kg (7.1 lb), females are slightly lighter at about 2.84 kg (6.3 lb).
Seasonal Movements and Habitats
The breeding season typically begins in May or June, with nests built on the ground in northern Russia and Siberia, often near water bodies like pools, rivers, and lakes. These sites are frequently found at the edges of taiga zones or in wide glacial valleys.
As colder weather arrives, usually starting in early September, the geese begin their southward migration. They travel to wintering grounds across Europe and Asia, including parts of Japan and Korea. During this period, they prefer open landscapes such as marshlands, coastal areas, wetlands, and agricultural fields, including rice paddies. While there are no regular wintering sites in the UK, small numbers can be observed, particularly in eastern England, such as at WWT Slimbridge and Holkham Marshes, especially during colder European conditions.
Foraging and Conservation
The Tundra Bean Goose is primarily herbivorous. They forage on grasses, sedges, roots, and aquatic vegetation. During the winter months, they frequently move into agricultural fields to consume leftover grains, cereals, potatoes, and other crops like beans and carrots. Their strong bills are well-suited for digging up roots and tubers from the ground.
These geese are social birds, often seen grazing in flocks. They forage methodically, walking in loose groups and communicating with soft honking calls.
The Tundra Bean Goose is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by conservation organizations, and its population is considered stable overall. However, some subspecies, such as Anser serrirostris serrirostris, are suspected to be declining, facing threats from habitat loss due to oil pollution, wetland drainage, and changing land management practices in their breeding and wintering grounds. They are also vulnerable to human persecution and pesticides used in cultivated fields.