Andean Goose

Chloephaga melanoptera

Diet

This goose is a grazing species, feeding on grasses, sedges, and fleshy aquatic plants.

Habitat

Found at high elevations in a variety of lakes and marshes surrounded by grassland and rough pastures. It is often forced to descend to lower altitudes by winter snow.

Nesting

Lays 5-10 eggs in a shallow ground nest lined with vegetation. Incubation is approximately 39 days; fledging around 3 weeks. As soon as chicks hatch they are taken to the water for protection.

Did you know?

Despite its webbed feet, the Andean goose is not a strong swimmer; it is largely terrestrial and avoids swimming except in emergencies.