BEEEEEEEAN GOOOOOOOOSE

The bean goose is a species complex of goose that breeds in northern Europe and Eurosiberia. The species complex comprises the closely related taiga bean goose (Anser fabalis) and tundra bean goose (Anser serrirostris). Together, they contain five subspecies, with complex variation in body size and bill size and pattern. Generally, size increases from north to south and from west to east.

It has at least two distinct varieties, one inhabiting taiga habitats and one inhabiting tundra. The English and scientific names of the bean goose come from its habit in the past of grazing in bean field stubbles in winter. Anser is the Latin for “goose”, and fabalis is derived from the Latin faba, a broad bean

As their names suggest, Taiga Bean Geese follow a diet in which beans feature heavily. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials. Their diet includes grasses, sedges, and aquatic plants in natural habitats.

Grasses, cereal crops, potatoes, and other agricultural crops are among the main foods eaten. During migration and winter, they often forage in agricultural fields, consuming crops such as grains and potatoes.

Taiga Bean Geese are highly gregarious, often forming large flocks during migration and winter. They exhibit a distinctive ‘V’ formation when flying long distances.

On the ground, they are vigilant grazers, taking turns to keep watch while feeding in groups.

Taiga Bean Geese produce a variety of vocalisations, with their most characteristic call being a loud, nasal honking sound. This call is often described as ‘ang-ang’ or ‘aang-aang’, typically given in flight or when alarmed. Flocks create a cacophony of honks during migration.

They form monogamous pairs that last several seasons. They typically live for 7 years but can reach 25 in captivity.