Egyptian goose

Scientific name: Alopochen aegyptiaca

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

A medium-sized goose with chestnut-and-white plumage, distinctive dark eye-patch, and russet patches on the wings and back. Males are slightly larger and heavier than females, with a more pronounced knob at the base of the bill.

Size and weight

Males 63–73 cm body length, 1.0–1.5 kg; females 60–67 cm, 0.9–1.3 kg.

Habitat

Egyptian geese occupy freshwater and brackish wetlands including lakes, rivers, marshes, and flood plains, often with scattered trees and open grassland nearby. They range from sea level to moderate elevations and tolerate both natural and human-modified water systems.

Distribution

Native to sub-Saharan Africa, with strongholds in East Africa and the Nile Valley. Introduced populations now established in Europe and parts of Asia, occupying similar wetland habitats across their range.

Diet

Primarily grazes on grasses and clover in pastures and meadows; also dabbles for aquatic vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates in shallow water.

Behaviour

Diurnal and crepuscular, most active at dawn and dusk; highly vocal with loud honking calls. Pairs remain together year-round and are territorial; often seen in small flocks outside breeding season, resting on banks or open water during midday.

Hunting tips

Look for tracks and droppings near water margins and in grazed pasture; fresh sign indicates recent use. Approach from downwind across open terrain, using ground contours and vegetation for cover. Most effective at dawn/dusk when birds move between roosting and feeding areas; use water edges and reed beds for stalking.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 12 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.