Egyptian Goose - Alopochen aegyptiacus
Egyptian geese are common and widespread
geese in southern Africa. Egyptian geese frequent rivers, marshes
and lakes resorting to a wide range of nesting sites. Cavities and
holes in trees and abandoned nests of other birds may be selected;
also ledges on cliffs and banks. Attractively marked, particularly
in flight when distinctive white wing-coverts are revealed, Egyptian
geese draw attention to themselves in the coming months with noisy
displays and fierce territorial fighting both afloat and ashore.
Rivals stand or swim, breast to breast,
continually attempting to seize each other's backs near the base
of the neck while beating with wings and even striking with feet.
Following egg laying, the birds almost disappear until the time
comes to escort flotillas of goslings to the water.
The bird was viewed as being sacred
by the ancient Egyptians. Pairs of these birds are known to remain
together for long and lasting periods.
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