Related to the shelduck, this pale brown and grey goose has distinctive dark brown eye-patches and contrasting white wing patches in flight. It was introduced as an ornamental wildfowl species and has escaped into the wild, now successfully breeding in a feral state.
Key ID Features:
Slightly larger than its relative Ruddy Shelduck with more colour variation and distinct white wing panels.
The pale brown body is enhanced with panelling of autumnal colours of greys, russets and greens.
Above a reddish brown neckline is a pale head with a distinctive dark brown eye patch and dark pink bill.
Long pink legs sit below pale underparts bearing a dark brown breast patch.
Overview
Scientific name: Alopochen aegyptiacus
Family: Swans, ducks and geese (Anatidae)
Where to see them:
Seen frequently on ornamental ponds where it was originally brought. Now can be seen on gravel pits and lowland lakes and wetlands. The north Norfolk coast holds the highest numbers; also in areas like the Norfolk Broads.
Seen in UK:
All year round.
What they eat
Seeds and grass.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: Chew Valley Lakes, Somerset
Photographer: Tim Tapley
