Least Concern Birds

Egyptian Goose

Alopochen aegyptiaca

Egyptian Goose feeds on plants and insects near freshwater lakes and wetlands.

Scientific name	Alopochen aegyptiaca
Swahili name	Bata wa Misri
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Size	Male: approximately 2.5-3.2 kg; Female: approximately 2.0-2.7 kg

See this species in the app

How to identify

Body plumage mainly light brown and gray; distinct dark brown patch on the chest; red bare skin ring around the eye; white markings on the wings; bill and legs pink

Habitat

Freshwater lakes, rivers, wetlands, aquatic areas near open woodland savannas

Diet

Omnivorous, primarily feeding on herbaceous plants, seeds, aquatic plants, insects, and small invertebrates

When it is active

Diurnal, active frequently during the day

Where it lives

Mainly distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania (including Masai Mara); also found in Egypt and parts of the Middle East

How to spot it

Observe at dawn or dusk near water-edge wetlands, paying attention to its unique eye ring and chest markings; use binoculars or telephoto lenses for photography

Photography tips

Recommended to use telephoto lenses to capture detailed features such as the eye ring and wing markings; utilize natural lighting to capture water reflection effects