Egyptian Goose - Alopochen aegyptiacus
Egyptian geese are common and widespread
geese in Botswana. 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. |
