Species Profile
Tundra Bean Goose
Anser serrirostris
Tundra Bean Goose
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
7 years
Length
66–84 cm
Weight
1900–3300 g
Wingspan
140–174 cm
Migration
Long-distance Migrant
Also known as: Eastern Bean Goose
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Appearance
The Tundra Bean Goose is a large, robust waterfowl with predominantly brown plumage. Its body is marked by darker upperparts and lighter underparts, with a distinctive orange band on its otherwise black bill. They have orange legs and feet, and the eyes are dark brown.
Adults and juveniles share similar colouration, though young birds may appear slightly duller. During winter, their plumage becomes slightly paler, but overall seasonal changes are minimal.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Orange
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Tundra Bean Geese breed in the Arctic tundra of northern Eurasia, from Scandinavia to eastern Siberia. During winter, they migrate south to temperate regions, including parts of Europe and East Asia.
In the UK, they are winter visitors, primarily found in eastern England, with notable concentrations in Norfolk and Suffolk. They prefer coastal marshes, estuaries, and nearby agricultural land during the non-breeding season.
Distribution
Diet
Tundra Bean Geese are primarily herbivorous. They feed on a variety of plant matter, including grasses, sedges, and aquatic vegetation. During winter, they often forage in agricultural fields, consuming leftover grains and crops, beans and carrots seem to be favourites. Their strong bills are well-adapted for digging up roots and tubers.
In Korea, East China and Japan, rice paddies offer attractive foraging grounds. On their tundra breeding landscapes, some small mammals and insects, particularly midges and mosquitoes, may occasionally be eaten.
Behaviour
Tundra Bean Geese are highly social, often seen in large flocks during migration and winter. They exhibit a distinctive 'V' formation when flying long distances, which helps conserve energy.
On the ground, they forage methodically, walking in loose groups and communicating with soft honking calls.
Calls & Sounds
The Tundra Bean Goose's call is a deep, resonant honking sound, often described as 'ung-unk' or 'ahng-ahng'. These vocalisations are frequently heard during flight and when flocks are settling or taking off.
In breeding areas, pairs may engage in duet calling, producing a rhythmic series of honks.
Nesting & Breeding
Tundra Bean Geese form monogamous pairs, often maintaining these bonds for multiple breeding seasons. They typically breed in the Arctic tundra from late May to early June.
Nests are built on the ground, usually near water bodies, and are constructed of plant material lined with down. Females lay 3-5 eggs, which are creamy white in colour.
Incubation lasts about 25-30 days, primarily carried out by the female while the male stands guard. Goslings are precocial and can leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching, fledging after approximately 40-45 days.
Conservation
While currently listed as Least Concern, Tundra Bean Geese face threats from habitat loss in their breeding and wintering grounds. Climate change impacts on Arctic tundra habitats are a growing concern.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting key wetland areas along their migration routes.
Population
Estimated: Unknown
Trend: Stable
Elevation
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators include Arctic foxes, large gulls, and birds of prey such as eagles and skuas, particularly targeting eggs and young goslings.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for large flocks in wetlands and agricultural fields during migration seasons
- Observe the distinctive orange band on the bill to differentiate it from other goose species
- Listen for their characteristic honking calls, especially in flight
- In the UK, best spotted in eastern England during winter months
Did You Know?
- Tundra Bean Geese can fly at speeds of up to 70 km/h (43 mph) during migration.
- They have excellent memory, returning to the same breeding and wintering sites year after year.
- Their feet have adapted to be partially webbed, allowing them to walk efficiently on land and swim in water.
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