Spur-winged Goose

The Spur-winged Goose is a large, striking waterfowl with predominantly black plumage contrasted by white wing patches and belly. Its head and neck display iridescent green and purple hues, while a prominent red facial knob and pinkish legs add to its distinctive appearance.

Males are larger than females, with more extensive iridescence, a larger red facial patch and a larger facial knob. Females have a browner overall colouration and a smaller knob. Juveniles resemble females but lack the facial knob.

Spur-winged Geese are generally quiet but produce a variety of vocalisations. Their most common call is a loud, nasal honking, often described as a 'honk-honk' or 'hank-hank'.

During courtship or when alarmed, they may emit softer whistles or grunts.

• Look for large, dark waterfowl with white wing patches in wetlands and grasslands
• Listen for their distinctive honking calls, especially in flight
• Observe their behaviour on land, where they spend much time grazing
• Watch for their reluctance to fly when approached, often preferring to run or swim

Spur-winged Geese are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, aquatic plants, and crops. They also consume small invertebrates and occasionally fish.

Their strong bill allows them to dig for roots and tubers, while their long neck enables foraging in shallow water.

Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season, though the timing varies across their range. Pairs are monogamous and often return to the same nesting sites year after year.

Nests are usually constructed on the ground near water, hidden in dense vegetation. The female lays 6-14 cream-coloured eggs in a shallow depression lined with grass and down.

Incubation lasts about 30-32 days and is primarily undertaken by the female. The male remains nearby, guarding the nest. Goslings are precocial and can leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching, staying with their parents for several months.

Spur-winged Geese are often seen grazing in open grasslands, using their strong legs and feet to forage. They are generally gregarious, forming large flocks outside the breeding season.

When threatened, they prefer to run or swim rather than fly but are capable of powerful, direct flight when necessary.

While currently listed as Least Concern, Spur-winged Geese face localised threats from habitat loss and hunting.

Conservation efforts focus on protecting wetland habitats and regulating hunting practices to ensure sustainable populations across their range.