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Kelp Goose

Chloephaga hybrida malvinarum

Photo by LauraMaria
Published on Project Noah
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-51.6943, -57.8304

Field Notes

Description:

Coastal sheldgoose, the sub-species malvinarum is found only on the Falklands. These birds are highly sexually dimorphic, and almost look like different species. The male is pure white with a black bill and yellow legs, while the female has a black back and head, white and black barring on the under parts, a white tail and yellow legs. The males hold territory and watch over the female and any hatchlings.

Habitat:

Found on rocky coasts where it feeds on seaweed, and nests above the tide line in grassy areas

Notes:

Spotted this pair of kelp geese as I was walking into Stanley from the harbour.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (3)

Indeed a perfect example of extreme sexual dimorphism!! I love the barred pattern on the male's breast!!

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Photographed
PublishedFebruary 18, 2013

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