35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Anseriformes; Family: Anatidae; Genus: Chloephaga; Genus species: Chloephaga melanoptera. Animal characteristics: Identification: The Andean goose has mostly white feathers. It has a coral red bill with a black tip; Habitat: Marshy plains, damp meadows, mountain valleys, lakes, lagoons; Diet: Herbivore: semi aquatic plants; Reproduction: Andean geese form life-long pairs. Their nests are shallow scrapes in the ground, built in November. The chicks hatch in late December or early January and fledge by three months of age; Social Structure: Loose flocks are the most common social group; Behavior: These birds are known for being very defensive and violent; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: Despite the fact that they are classified as water birds, Andean geese are relatively poor swimmers.