Key information
The tundra bean goose is a species of bean goose that can be seen in the UK during the winter. It tends to be darker and browner than the other 'grey geese' species with orange legs and a darker head and neck. On average it is about 20 per cent smaller than the related taiga bean goose with similar but slightly darker plumage, a stockier body and shorter neck. The bill appears shorter and in most individuals, the yellow-orange patch is much smaller, covering less than half the bill.
It breeds in the Russian tundra and winters at coastal locations in Europe. The tundra bean goose is the commonest species of bean goose and it's population is considered stable.
What they eat:
Grass, cereals, potatoes and other crops.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 53-70cm
- Wingspan:
- 118-140cm
- Weight:
- 1.9-3.3kg (m), 2.0-2.8kg (f)
Population:
- UK wintering:
- 320
- Europe:
- 550,000 individuals
Identifying features:
Tundra bean goose
