| Egyptian Goose | ||||||||||||||
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| Scientific classification | ||||||||||||||
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| Binomial name | ||||||||||||||
| Alopochen aegyptiacus |
The Egyptian Goose, Alopochen aegyptiacus, is a member of the duck, goose and swan family Anatidae. It is in the shelduck subfamily Tadorninae.
This species breeds widely in Africa except deserts and dense forests, and is locally abundant. It is also introduced elsewhere, and in Great Britain the large self-sustaining feral population, dating back to the 18th century, means that it is officially on the British list. It is found in East Anglian parkland with lakes.
This is a largely terrestrial species, which will also perch readily on trees and buildings. It swims well, and in flight looks heavy, more like a goose than a duck.
This is a territorial species in the breeding season, and will nest in a large variety of situations.
The sexes of this striking species are identical.