It is native to Africa, where it is widespread south of the Sahara and in the Nile Valley. Egyptian geese have also been introduced to other parts of the world, such as Western Europe, and have established feral populations, particularly in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.
As a medium-sized bird, the Egyptian goose typically measures 63 to 73 centimeters in length and has a wingspan of 110 to 135 centimeters. Both sexes display similar plumage, with greyish-brown back feathers and a lighter chest. The most striking features are the dark brown eye patch and the chestnut ring around their eyes, which give them a distinctive and somewhat stern appearance. Additionally, they have conspicuous white wing patches that become visible in flight.
These geese are known for their loud, harsh calls, which can often be heard at great distances, especially during their breeding season. They are also known for their aggressive behavior, particularly in defending their territory and young.
In terms of habitat, Egyptian geese are quite adaptable and can be found in a variety of wetland habitats, including lakes, rivers, marshes, and agricultural lands. They have adapted well to urban environments and can commonly be seen in city parks and on golf courses where there are bodies of water.
Monogamy is a significant aspect of the social behavior of the Egyptian goose. Pairs form strong, enduring bonds and are often seen together throughout the year. During the breeding season, both male and female collaborate in building a nest, which is typically located near water on the ground among tall vegetation or occasionally in a tree or on a building. They show a high degree of parental care, with both parents involved in incubating the eggs and raising the young.
Distribution
Algeria
Angola
Austria
Belgium
Benin
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Central Af. Rep.
Chad
China
Congo-Brazzaville
Cyprus
Côte D’ivoire
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Denmark
Djibouti
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Eswatini
Ethiopia
France
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea
Hungary
Israel
Official estimate
Kenya
Lesotho
Malawi
Mali
Malta
Mauritania
Mozambique
Namibia
Netherlands
Niger
Nigeria
Oman
Qatar
Rwanda
Senegal
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Spain
Sudan
Tanzania
Togo
Tunisia
UAE
Uganda
United Kingdom
Zambia
ZimbabweAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd / Flock
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
