So Many Dishes

We have frequently seen these birds when we walk along the canal path, one of my favorite walks. There are almost always birds of one type or another along the canal, but these tend to congregate at one particular spot. This is the first time I’ve gotten a good picture of one and was able to identify it.

Native to Africa and more closely related to ducks than other geese, the Egyptian goose has escaped captivity and established feral populations in Europe and the United States, particularly in Florida. In the European Union, it is considered an invasive species. In Florida, it’s listed as a non-native species that is not covered by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

The geese are territorial and aggressive. They tend to out compete native species for good and nesting territory. They also damage lawns and crops. So, not exactly a bird you’d want hanging around, but at least I’ve learned something new.