Swan Goose

Swan geese are native to eastern Asia. Many spend summer in the Mongol Daguur steppe around the borders of Russia, Mongolia, and China, then migrate south to the Yangtze River basin, sometimes staging along the coast. Adults are large geese measuring 81–94 centimetres, with wingspans of 160–185 centimetres and an average mass of 3,150 grams. They have two-toned heads and necks, stocky black bills, orange feet, and dark-brown wings and backs (Animal Diversity Web).

These grazing geese use their short, sturdy bills to crop terrestrial grasses and collect roots, seeds, aquatic plants, and rhizomes near wetlands. In the Yangtze wintering area, they may graze reed canary grass or dig for submerged Vallisneria rhizomes. Breeding occurs during spring. Adults use shaking, preening, and other ritualized displays during pair formation and territorial encounters. Pairs are generally monogamous for the breeding season, although males may sometimes compete physically for particularly desirable females (Animal Diversity Web).