Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

 The Egyptian goose

The Egyptian goose is actually considered a duck, despite its name; with its closest relatives being the shelduck. This waterbird is named after its place of origin, the Nile Valley and the South Sahara. 

They are said to be one of the oldest domesticated species and were first kept by Ancient Egyptians around 3100 BC. The Egyptian goose appears in many pieces of Ancient Egyptian artwork and was considered sacred (they were up there with cats!). 

They were originally introduced to the UK in the 17th century and were widespread by the 18th-19th century. These birds can now be found in much of Europe, America, New Zealand, and of course Africa. 

These birds range in weight from approximately 2.2-6 lbs, and have an impressive 25-29 inch wingspan; they are so heavy that they tend to only fly when absolutely necessary. Both genders share an extremely similar appearance, but males are slightly larger on average and the females tend to have darker brown markings on their bills. Their diet consists of aquatic vegetation, worms, insects, and sometimes small frogs. Breeding takes place once a year and will start defending breeding sites from January onwards, as they are early breeders.

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Breeding pairs can nest on the ground amongst vegetation, on buildings or even on cliff ledges. When nests are up high, the young must brave the plummet from high altitudes; but with their lightweight and down feathers for extra protection, deaths are uncommon.