English: Lesser White-fronted Goose.
Russian:  Пискулька
German: Zwerggans
French: Oie naine
Mongolian: Одой галуу
Japanese: カリガネ (Karigane)

Body length: 56-66 cm
Wing span: 115-135 cm

Status: Rare species. According to the IUCN Red List categories and criteria, the species evaluated as-Vulnerable.

Habitat: Breeds on marshes and bogs in boreal mountains, generally in willow and birch zone. Has declined, now very rare in Europe. Reintroduction in Fenno-Scandia, (colour-ringed) young programmed to migrate towards southwest in winter (where biocide levels and shooting pressure estimated to be more favourable), having Barnacle Geese as foster parents.

Distribution and range In Mongolia: The species occur in the Kherlen, Ulz Rivers valleys, Khokh, Doroo, Khaichiin Tsagaan, Khoriin Tsagaan and Delger Tsagaan Lakes. The Khalkh, Nomrog, Azargiin Rivers valleys and the Buir, Tashgain Tavan Nuur Lakes.

Population and Threats: Population is undetermined. During spring and fall migration the species occur in eastern region lakes waters. The global population is believed to consist of 20-35 thousands individuals, 99.9% of which breeds in the Russian Federation. During the last the 30 years the population declined by 6-7 times. In Mongolia, there in no direct threat to affect the species population decline. However, during migration some individuals or small groups join waterfowl, which can make them target for poaching.

Conservation Measures: Included in the Annex to the Mongolia Government Revolution #7 (2012), and the Asia Red Data Book for Birds (2001) and the Russian Red Data Book for Birds. The distribution area is partially protected.

Further actions: To improve monitoring of illegal hunting, poaching in the species migration passage areas, assess its distribution and population abundance, organize public awareness.

Identification: Slightly smaller than similar White-fronted, but marginal overlap. Best told by prominent yellow orbital ring (also on juv); white blaze reaching forecrown, white area angled in side view; bill small (‘cute-looking’), always pink; plumage rather dark, but black belly markings fewer. Wings narrow, flight agile, wingbeats fast. Feet orange-red. Juvenile: Resembles juvenile White-fronted, but is on average smaller and darker over-all, and nail is usually pale. Still, often inseparable but for presence of yellow orbital ring.