Spur-winged Goose
Plectropterus gambensis

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CLASS

Aves

ORDER

Anseriformes

FAMILY

Anatidae

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Range

Africa south of the Sahara

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Habitat

Swamps, lakes, flooded meadows, grassy plains

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Diet

Young shoots and grasses, seeds, fruit, and crops

Facts

• Males are larger than females and develop a knob on the forehead as they mature.
• The voice of the male is a thin, squeaky whistle and females are generally silent.
• Named for the odd spur on the forepart of the wing.
• Although its ground-nesting habits led to it being called a goose, it is actually a perching duck.

 

Conservation

Not threatened, but faces challenges from uncontrolled hunting.