Egyptian goose
(Alopochen aegyptiaca)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Origin
Alopochen aegyptiaca is native to Africa south of the Sahara. Egyptian geese likely were introduced to the United States as escapees from captivity or enclosures as pets.
Life Cycle
Plumage varies widely in tones of brown and white. No difference occurs in plumage between sexes however males are slightly larger than females. A. aegyptiaca are large in size with a height 25-29 in. (63-73 cm) and weight of 3.3-5 lbs (1.5-2.3 kg). Egyptian geese are primarily herbivores with diets consisting of grass, grains, and other soft vegetation. A. aegyptiaca reach sexual maturity at the 2 years old with females laying 5-12 eggs in a clutch. Incubation lasts 28-30 days with young fledging in 70 days.
Distribution
A. aegyptiaca are widespread and increasing in population across Florida. Smaller populations occur in California, Texas, and other states.
Control Efforts
A. aegyptiaca are aggressive toward other native species of birds, likely displacing species from feeding and nesting habitat. Egyptian geese may damage habitat in populations with large numbers.
https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/ANS/erss/highrisk/ERSS-Alopochen-aegyptiaca-FINAL-April2018.pdf
Alopochen aegyptiaca is native to Africa south of the Sahara. Egyptian geese likely were introduced to the United States as escapees from captivity or enclosures as pets.
Life Cycle
Plumage varies widely in tones of brown and white. No difference occurs in plumage between sexes however males are slightly larger than females. A. aegyptiaca are large in size with a height 25-29 in. (63-73 cm) and weight of 3.3-5 lbs (1.5-2.3 kg). Egyptian geese are primarily herbivores with diets consisting of grass, grains, and other soft vegetation. A. aegyptiaca reach sexual maturity at the 2 years old with females laying 5-12 eggs in a clutch. Incubation lasts 28-30 days with young fledging in 70 days.
Distribution
A. aegyptiaca are widespread and increasing in population across Florida. Smaller populations occur in California, Texas, and other states.
Control Efforts
A. aegyptiaca are aggressive toward other native species of birds, likely displacing species from feeding and nesting habitat. Egyptian geese may damage habitat in populations with large numbers.
https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/ANS/erss/highrisk/ERSS-Alopochen-aegyptiaca-FINAL-April2018.pdf
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Invasive Listing Sources
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Animalia |
| Phylum: Chordata |
| Class: Aves |
| Order: Anseriformes |
| Family: Anatidae |
| Genus: Alopochen |
| Alopochen aegyptiaca |