Скачать или смотреть Egyptian Goose [Alopochen Aegyptiaca]

You can read more about Egyptian Goose here - https://avibirds.com/egyptian-goose/


In this video, we learn about the Egyptian goose.

QUICK FACTS:

• Lifespan: 25 years
• Length: 28 in
• Wingspan: 57 in
• Weight: 4 lb
• Family: Anatidae

Description

The Egyptian goose is a widely-known member of the Anatidae family. It is, in fact, a duck and not a goose. It has a heavy build, and its plumage varies in contrasting shades of brown, grey, black, white, and metallic green. It has yellowish-brown eyes with dark circles. The coloration varies between birds. The flat bill comes to a point, and its legs are pink. Sexes are alike. Males are slightly larger than females, and juveniles lack the dark circles around the eyes.

Vocalizations: Call and song

Egyptian geese are vocal birds, with females more so than males. Males do, however, honk loudly during courtship displays. They also produce wheezy whistling noises and horse quacking sounds.

Distribution and range

Egyptian geese are native to sub-Saharan Africa, with its origins along the Nile Valley. They were introduced to many parts of the world as an ornamental breed, and feral populations have established in parts of Europe, North America, and New Zealand.

Habitat

Egyptian geese breed in a variety of suitable habitats, including wetlands, islands, cliffs, caves, and even buildings. During winter, they inhabit a range of environments near water.

Diet and feeding habits

Their diet mainly comprises plant matter such as seeds, grasses, leaves, and stems. They may also eat insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.

Nesting and breeding

Egyptian geese are monogamous, typically forming life-long pair bonds. They nest on the ground in shallow scrapes, in tree holes, or along cliffs and ledges. The nest is constructed by the female using vegetation such as reeds, leaves, grasses, and roots. It is lined with down. They sometimes use the abandoned nests of other birds. The female lays up to eleven eggs, and incubation may last a month. They fledge around two months later. The goslings are precocial when they hatch and can forage for themselves, but they are still reliant on their parents for protection for several months.

Relationship with humans

Egyptian geese are well-known birds that were introduced to many parts of the world to be kept ornamentally. They were considered sacred by the Ancient Egyptians and feature in much of their artwork.

Status and conservation

The Egyptian goose is a widespread bird in its native range and beyond. They are classified as least concern by the IUCN.

You can read more about Egyptian Goose here - https://avibirds.com/egyptian-goose/

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