Spur-winged Goose

Plectropterus gambensis

A massive African waterfowl that can weigh up to 7 kg, distinguished by sharp wing spurs used for defence and territorial displays.

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Visual Identification

Appearance

The Spur-winged Goose is a large, striking waterfowl with predominantly black plumage contrasted by white wing patches and belly. Its head and neck display iridescent green and purple hues, while a prominent red facial knob and pinkish legs add to its distinctive appearance.

Males are larger than females, with more extensive iridescence, a larger red facial patch and a larger facial knob. Females have a browner overall colouration and a smaller knob. Juveniles resemble females but lack the facial knob.

Size

Length

75cm to 115cm

Wingspan

150cm to 200cm

Weight

4kg to 6.8kg

Colours

Male Female

Primary Colour

Black White

Secondary Colour

Green Purple Iridescent

Beak Colour

Red

Leg Colour

Pink

Primary Colour (Female)

Brown White

Secondary Colour (Female)

Green

Beak Colour (Female)

Red

Leg Colour (Female)

Pink

Habitat and Distribution

Habitats

Woodland

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Woodland habitats.

Garden

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Garden habitats.

Wetland

The Spur-winged Goose can be found in Wetland habitats.

Coastal

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Coastal habitats.

Urban

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Urban habitats.

Farmland

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Farmland habitats.

Grassland

The Spur-winged Goose can be found in Grassland habitats.

Desert

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Desert habitats.

Tundra

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Tundra habitats.

Rainforest

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Rainforest habitats.

Mountain

The Spur-winged Goose is not typically found in Mountain habitats.

Savanna

The Spur-winged Goose can be found in Savanna habitats.

Distribution

Spur-winged Geese inhabit a wide range of wetland habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, including marshes, lakes, rivers, and flooded grasslands. They are also found in savannah and open woodland areas, particularly when these are near water bodies.

During the dry season, they may congregate in large numbers around permanent water sources. Some populations undertake local migrations in response to seasonal rainfall patterns and water availability.

Elevation Range

Up to 3,000 meters

Climate zones

Tropical, Subtropical

Distribution Map

This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Spur-winged Goose. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.

A few things to keep in mind:

Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations

We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:

More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
How birds move around during different seasons