Cape Barren Goose
Scientific Name: Cereopsis novaehollandiae
Size: 75 to 100 (males larger than females)
What does it look like?
The Cape Barren Goose is an unmistakable large pale grey goose with bright yellowish cere and dark pink legs. Both sexes are similar and younger birds have an all grey bill and bluish-grey legs.
Where is it found?
Today the species is widespread throughout southern Australia, but in the 1950s it was considered to be close to extinction, and is still one of the world’s rarest geese, but the species was introduced to various locations (including Maria Island) in an effort to increase numbers. Today it is considered safe.
What are its habitats & habits?
The Cape Barren Goose inhabits tussock grasslands and pasture, where it feeds on grasses and herbs and nests on the ground within a small aggressively-defended territory. The male builds the nest on the ground and lines it with down.
This species features in my book Australia’s Birdwatching Megaspots
