Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

A member of the Anatidae duck, goose, and swan family is the Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca). South of the Sahara and the Nile River, it is native to Africa.

Ancient Egyptians found Egyptian geese sacred, and they featured in much of their artwork. Because of their popularity primarily as an ornamental bird, in Western Europe, the United States, and New Zealand, escapees are common and wild populations have emerged.

This is a mostly terrestrial animal that can easily perch on trees and buildings as well. Typically, Egyptian geese consume seeds, leaves, herbs, and plant stems. They will consume locusts, worms, or other small creatures, sometimes. They feed largely on small aquatic invertebrates, especially freshwater plankton, until the goslings are a few weeks old and strong enough to graze.

In a wide variety of circumstances, this species can nest, especially in holes in mature trees in parklands. The female creates from reeds, leaves and grass the nest, and both parents take turns incubating eggs. Egyptian geese are normally life-long pairs. The offspring are cared for by both males and females until they are mature enough to fend for themselves. However such parental treatment should not require foraging for young people who, being precocious, forage themselves.