Ruddy-headed Goose
NameRuddy-headed Goose
Common NameRuddy-headed Goose
Scientific NameChloephaga rubidiceps
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)115
Length (cm)47.5
Weight (g)2000
Plumage DetailsBoth sexes feature a chestnut-ruddy head and upper neck. The back and breast are pale grey, with fine black barring visible on the flanks. The belly and undertail coverts are white, the bill is black, and the legs and feet are orange.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but can emit soft honks or hisses, particularly when alarmed or interacting within its flock.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southern South America, specifically Patagonia in Chile and Argentina, and a significant population resides in the Falkland Islands.
Identifying FeaturesRuddy-brown head and upper neck, Pale grey body with fine black barring on flanks, Black bill, Orange legs
Description
The Ruddy-headed Goose is a medium-sized goose known for its distinctive ruddy-brown head and neck, contrasting with a pale grey body finely barred on the flanks. It is primarily a grazer, feeding on grasses and sedges in open grasslands and wetlands.
