Swan Goose: here’s the scoop
threats
This species is threatened by habitat loss, agricultural development, disturbance by people and cattle, and pollution. While it is legally protected in Russia, Mongolia, South Korea and some provinces in China, swan geese are threatened by uncontrolled hunting. The concentration of birds at fewer sites in their wintering grounds renders the population to be even more susceptible to the impacts of pollution, disease, hunting, and the degradation of habitat.
Committed to Conservation
The Buttonwood Park Zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Swan Geese. The goal of the SSP is to cooperatively manage animal populations within AZA accredited zoos to ensure the sustainability of a healthy and genetically diverse population while enhancing the conservation of this species in the wild.
Species
Swan Goose
Scientific name
Anser cygnoid
Habitat
Breeds in wetlands in forest-steppe zones, including river deltas, river valleys with meadows, the margins of brackish and freshwater lakes, and in mountainous areas along narrow, fast-flowing rivers. In winter, it occurs in lowland lakeside marshes, rice field, estuaries and tidal flats.
Diet
Grasses, roots and seeds
life expectancy
20 years
Did you know?
Range
China, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Mongolia, Russia
Conservation status
Vulnerable
Likely to become endangered unless circumstances improve
