Egyptian Goose

The Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca) is a large species of waterfowl native to most of sub-Saharan Africa. It has also been introduced in large portions of western Europe and the United Kingdom, as well as the United States, Israel and the United Arab Emirates. It grows to lengths between 63-73 cm (25-29 in) and weights between 1.5-2.3 kg (3.3-5 lb). It is named “goose” mostly because of its size, but it is not really a goose. It is closely related to the shelducks and sheldgeese. Plumage is light on the head, with a distinct brown mask around the eyes. A dark neck-ring separates the lighter head and neck region from a more tan to greyish body. Back and wings are dark brown to reddish brown, often with a white patch visible on the wings. Both sexes look similar.

The Egyptian goose is often found in open and semi-open habits near fresh water. It can be found as high as 4,000 meters (13,000 ft) above sea level. It is not found in deserts or in dense forests. It does well near human habitation and are therefore also often seen in parks and green patches within urban environments. Egyptian goose predominantly feed on plant matter, such as grass, leaves, seeds, and stems, but will occasionally eat small invertebrates. Chicks will eat small aquatic invertebrates during the first few weeks but will change to a more plant rich diet as they get older.

The Egyptian goose is a highly territorial species when breeding and will act aggressively towards other individuals of the same species, as well as against any other intruder they deem a threat. It is a very loud species, and will often state their presence by sounds, but pairs will readily chase off any threat that gets too close. Breeding season varies with geographical area. In some areas they can breed all year round, whereas other areas breeding season coincides with early spring, or early rains.

The female builds the nest at close proximity to water. It can be placed both on the ground and above ground (such as in a tree). Small islands are often preferred as nest sites. 1-22 eggs are laid (6-10 is common) and incubated by the female alone for 28-30 days, while the male acts as sentry. Both parents look after the young after they hatch, and they fledge after 55-75 days.

The Egyptian goose is widespread and common throughout most of its native range, and several populations exist outside of its native range as well. Numbers are believed to be decreasing overall, mostly because it is targeted and killed as an agricultural pest feeding on crops. Because it is widespread and common, and populations are stable many places, it is regarded as least concern on the IUCN Red List.