Alopochen aegyptiaca
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Habitat: Wetlands and Parks
Length: 25 in – 29 in long
Weight: 3.5 – 5 lbs
Average Lifespan: 15 years
Incubation Period: 28 – 30 days
Number of Eggs: 5 – 12
Conservation Status: Least Concern
- Though they are named ‘Egyptian geese’ they are not geese but rather shelducks
- Egyptian geese were considered sacred by the Ancient Egyptians and
appeared in much of their artwork - The genders can also be told apart by their calls, as the male makes a strong,
hoarse hissing noise, while the female produces a harsh, trumpeting quack - Egyptian geese remain together in small flocks during the year, primarily for
protection - Both, males and females of this species are aggressively territorial with their
own species during breeding and often pursue intruders in flight, attacking them
in “dogfights” in the air - They are primarily herbivores, feeding on grass, seeds, stems, and leaves
from various plants, as well as grains, potatoes, and other types of vegetables - Egyptian geese usually get away from danger by walking, seldom flying,
except when they are surprised