9-6-2023 MANDAI BIRD PARADISE, SINGAPORE - BAR HEADED GOOSE (Anser indicus)

The bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) is a goose that breeds in Central Asia in colonies of thousands near mountain lakes and winters in South Asia, as far south as peninsular India. It lays three to eight eggs at a time in a ground nest. It is known for the extreme altitudes it reaches when migrating across the Himalayas.

The bird is pale grey and is easily distinguished from any of the other grey geese of the genus Anser by the black bars on its head. It is also much paler than the other geese in this genus. In flight, its call is a typical goose honking. A mid-sized goose, it measures 71–76 cm (28–30 in) in total length and weighs 1.87–3.2 kg (4.1–7.1 lb).

The summer habitat is high-altitude lakes where the bird grazes on short grass. The species has been reported as migrating south from Tibet, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Russia before crossing the Himalayas. The bird has come to the attention of medical science in recent years as having been an early victim of the H5N1 virus, HPAI (highly pathogenic avian influenza), at Qinghai. It suffers predation from crows, foxes, ravens, sea eagles, gulls and others. The total population may, however, be increasing, but it is complex to assess population trends, as this species occurs over more than 2,500,000 km2 (970,000 sq mi).

 

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - BAR HEADED GOOSE (Anser indicus)

The bar-headed goose, Anser indicus, is a remarkable species known for its striking appearance and incredible high-altitude flights. This pale grey goose is distinguished by two distinctive black bars on its head, setting it apart from other members of the Anser genus. It is a mid-sized bird, measuring between 71 to 76 cm in length and weighing between 1.87 to 3.2 kg.

When identifying the bar-headed goose, look for the unique black bars on the head, which are the key distinguishing feature. The bird's overall pale grey plumage contrasts with these markings. In flight, its honking call is characteristic of geese, aiding in identification from a distance.

During the summer, the bar-headed goose can be found around high-altitude lakes where it grazes on short grass. These areas provide the ideal setting for breeding and feeding.

The bar-headed goose breeds in Central Asia, including regions such as Tibet, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Russia. It is known for its winter migration to South Asia, reaching as far south as peninsular India.

This species is renowned for its migratory patterns, particularly for the extreme altitudes it reaches when crossing the Himalayas. The bar-headed goose has been recorded at elevations over 7,000 meters, showcasing remarkable physiological adaptations to hypoxic conditions.

The bar-headed goose emits a typical goose honking sound, especially noticeable during flight, which can be used as an auditory clue for identification.

Breeding occurs in colonies of thousands near mountain lakes, where the bar-headed goose lays three to eight eggs in a ground nest. The Tibetan Plateau serves as the primary breeding ground for this species.

In its winter habitat, the bar-headed goose feeds on cultivated fields, consuming crops such as barley, rice, and wheat. This can sometimes lead to crop damage.

The IUCN lists the bar-headed goose as Least Concern. While the total population may be increasing, assessing trends is complex due to the species' extensive range.

The bar-headed goose is a testament to the wonders of avian adaptation, thriving in environments that would be inhospitable to many other species. Its presence in the skies above the Himalayas is a marvel to behold, a true high-flyer in every sense.