Bar-headed Geese Anser indicus wintering in South-central Tibet

Abstract

We col1ected information on the status and distribution of Bar-headed Geese and Ruddy Shelduck, concurrently with surveys for endangered Black-necked Cranes in south-central Tibet, People's Republic of China.Surveys were conducted during six winters: 1990-91 through 1995-96.The highest estimated count for Bar-headed Geese was in December 1993 when 10,934 geese were observed.However: this survey excluded three known wintering areas.We estimate there are 13,000 -14500 Bar-headed Geese wintering in south-central Tibet, representing at least 25% of the estimated world population.Approximately 70% winter in two areas: Shigatse, around the confluence of the Nyang and Yarlung Rivers; and, Penbo River val1ey, north-east of Lhasa.The distribution of Ruddy Shelduck overlapped with Bar-headed Geese in al1 areas surveyed.Shelducks occurred in lower numbers than the geese, with the highest survey producing 3,836.The largest concentrations of Ruddy Shelduck occurred along the Penbo River val1ey.