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Nigel Key Ashy-Headed Goose
(Slimbridge March 2017)
The Ashy-Headed Goose is a sheldgoose of the sub family Tadorninae. They are hardy and particularly agressive in the breeding season.
Ashy-Headed Geese are mainly found on land but are sometimes seen perching or even roosting in trees. They generally only swim when they are moulting or have goslings.
| Hear the Ashy-Headed Goose's Call:- |
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Conservation Status
Size
500mm to 550mm (20" to 22")
Appearance - Male
The head is Grey, paler over the crown with a White eye ring, Brown eyes and a Black bill. A pale Brown to Grey back, Chestnut lower neck and breast with Black-barred White flanks. The primary feathers are Black with White secondaries and a Green speculum. The abdomen is White and the tail and rump is Black. The inside of the legs are Black and the outside of the legs are Red.
Appearance - Female
The female is similar to the male but has more pronounced barring on the underparts.
Habitat
Forest clearings, boggy meadows and rough pastures.
Diet
Grasses, leaves, stems, seedheads and sedges.
Breeding Time
October to November.
Eggs
Quantity: 4 to 6
Colour: Light Brown.
