Order: Anseriformes — Family: Anatidae
Status: Category II (EN) – Endangered

Importance for gene pool preservation:
Migratory and wintering individuals are important not only for Turkmenistan’s biodiversity but for the species’ global conservation.

Distribution:
From the Caspian Sea to the Amudarya River. Outside Turkmenistan, it nests in the southern tundra and forest-tundra of Eurasia. Winters along the Black and Caspian Sea coasts, with some individuals in the Balkans.

Habitat:
Lakes, reservoirs, and other wetlands. Forages on fields and fallow lands.

Population trends:
In the late 19th to early 20th century, tens of thousands were recorded in the lower Etrek River. No such gatherings were recorded in the 1930s. From 1974 to 1994, observed in small numbers. Between 1977–2003, counts in the Turkmenbashi Bay and lower Etrek ranged from 41 to 882 in November and 4 to 224 in January. Currently very rare along the Turkmen Caspian coast. On inland lakes (e.g., Kelif Lakes), 590, 220, and 35 individuals were recorded in 1972, 1974, and 1976 respectively. Very rare sightings in recent years.

Biological characteristics:
A migratory and wintering species seen from October to February in wetlands and winter grain fields. Breeds in tundra, forest-tundra, and montane taiga zones. Feeds on aquatic vegetation. Often seen with Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) and Greylag Goose (Anser anser).

Breeding:
No breeding activity recorded in Turkmenistan.

Conservation actions taken:
Listed on the IUCN Red List (VU, A2bcd+3bcd+4bcd). Included in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan since 1999. Protected in Hazar and Amudarya State Reserves, Kelif and Sarygamysh Sanctuaries, and several IBAs. Listed under CITES Appendix I, Bonn Convention (CMS) Appendices I and II, and AEWA Agreement.

Conservation actions proposed:
Strengthen awareness and protection efforts. Expand the Kelif Sanctuary. Establish the Tallymerjen Nature Reserve.

Research recommendations:
Regularly monitor migratory and wintering sites.