With its chunky body, silver-grey feathers, and bright greenish-yellow beak, it looks a bit like a goose that dressed up for a fancy costume party. Found mainly on the southern coasts of Australia and offshore islands like Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands, this goose is built for rugged, windy places. Unlike most geese, Cape Barren Geese are happy living on dry, grassy lands instead of wetlands, strutting around like they own the place.

One of the coolest things about the Cape Barren Goose is how independent it is. These birds are tough! They can drink salty or brackish water without any problems, which means they can survive in places where most other waterbirds wouldn’t stand a chance. They’re also excellent grazers, munching away on grasses and clover all day long. Their sturdy legs and webbed feet let them walk easily across rocky ground, open fields, and coastal cliffs, making them expert explorers of the tough southern landscapes.

Cape Barren Geese are also known for their strong family bonds. They usually pair up for life, with males fiercely protecting their mates and chicks during the breeding season. During courtship, you might see them honking loudly, stretching their necks, and even performing funny little strutting dances to impress each other. Once the chicks are born, both parents team up to raise and guard them, leading the fluffy youngsters around like proud, feathered bodyguards.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2018

Breeding

New Zealand

2018

Introduced