Upland Goose or Magellan Goose

Upland Goose or Magellan Goose

The Upland Goose or Magellan Goose (Chloephaga picta) is native to South America, where it occurs in open grassland areas.

Description

Males can be identified by their white heads and chests.

Females have a mostly brown plumage with black-striped wings and yellow feet. Females resemble the Ruddy-headed Geese.

Upland Geese measure between 60-72.5 cm (24-29 in) in length and weigh, on average, 2.7-3.2 kg (5.9-7 lbs).

Male Upland Goose (Chloephaga picta)
Female (1st) and Male (2nd) Upland Goose or Magellan Goose

Upland Goose or Magellan Goose (Chloephaga picta)

Diet / Feeding:

Geese feed mainly on plant material. When feeding in water, they submerge their heads and necks to reach aquatic plants, sometimes tipping forward like a dabbling duck. Flocks of these birds often feed on leftover cultivated grains in fields, especially during migration or in winter.

Ducks and geese generally feed on larvae and pupae usually found under rocks, aquatic animals, plant material, seeds, small fish, snails and crabs.

Further Goose Information

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Photo of author

Gordon Ramel

Gordon is an ecologist with two degrees from Exeter University. He's also a teacher, a poet and the owner of 1,152 books. Oh - and he wrote this website.

We love to hear from our readers. If you have any questions or if you want to get in touch with us, you can find our contact details on our About Us page.

Leave a Comment