Shelduck

Duck-Duck-Goose

If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it must be . . . an Egyptian Goose!

Alopochen aegyptiaca is large waterbird common across Africa (and found as an invasive in more than a few British gardens). It is a member of shelduck sub-family, Tadorninae, and not a true goose at all.

Its build is stocky. Its flight is awkward. Its plumage is colorful: brown, red, and white. It looks sneaky with a "bandit mask" around its eyes.

On safari, we often spot the quackers around water-holes, either on the ground or roosting in trees.

Spot an Egyptian goose for yourself! Join us in Africa in 2026.