Egyptian Goose

Alopochen aegyptiaca

Genus · African and Mascarene Sheldgeese Family · Ducks, Geese, and Swans
Observation tips Difficulty: EASY
Best time
🕒 Any
Activity
☀️ Diurnal
Best months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Observation habitat
Lake wetlandsRiverUrban

Common in urban parks. Look for the chocolate-brown patches around the eyes and a dark patch in the center of the breast.

Egyptian Goose
Stats
Wingspan134–154 cm
Weight1500–2300 g
Length63–73 cm
Lifespan wild10–20 yrs
Size
XS
S
M
L
XL
Nesting
Nest typeScrape
Clutch size5–12 eggs
Incubation28–30 days
Breeding months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Regional Status (Europe)
LC
Least Concern (Europe)
IUCN Red List
MigrationResident
Social BehaviourFlocking

Diet: Herbivore

🌾Grain
🌱Grass
🍃Plants

Habitat

🚜 Farmland🌿 Grassland🛶 Lake wetlands🏞️ River🏙️ Urban
✦ Fun Fact

Ancient Egyptians considered this bird sacred and featured it in their art. In modern Europe, it is often viewed as an invasive species.

About

The Egyptian Goose is a large, pale brown bird with distinctive dark 'eye patches'. It is technically a member of the shelduck family. Introduced to Europe in the 18th century, it now thrives in parks, lakes, and farms. It is a highly adaptable bird. It often outcompetes native ducks for nesting sites and food.

Behaviour

These geese are very aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding. They will attack larger birds and even humans who get too close. Unlike many geese, they frequently perch in trees. They may even nest in old raptor nests or on building ledges. They are loud; males hiss while females produce harsh honking calls.
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