Egyptian goose
- Class: Birds (Aves)
- Order: Waterfowls (Anseriformes)
- Family: Swans, geese, ducks (Anatidae)
- Släkte: Alopochen
- Species: Alopochen aegyptiacus
Size
Egyptian geese weigh between 1.5 and 2.3 kg.
Ecology
Egyptian geese are very common to many parts of Africa, and when gathered in flocks sometimes exceeding 100 birds, they are often able to considerably damage crops. They are mostly sedentary birds, and do not migrate seasonally, but occasionally during periods of drought they will leave their normal range in search of water. Egyptian geese remain in flocks consisting of family units throughout the majority of the year, only pairing up during the breeding season. They are well adapted to comfortably perching and roosting within trees. Pairs establish their own territories, which they defend vigorously against all intruders. Egyptian geese have been introduced into many parts of Europe, resulting in strongly-established feral populations.
Food habits
Egyptian geese obtain their food on land as well as in the water. They feed on various grasses, leaves and crops. Longevity Egyptian geese live for 15 years in the wild, and 20 years in zoos.
Reproduction
The nest is built in a hollow tree or in dense vegetation. The female lays 5 to 12 eggs and incubates them for 4 weeks.
Conservation status
At present, although the Egyptian goose is not endangered, it is considered a pest in some agricultural communities because of the damage it does to young crops.
