Blue-winged Goose
Cyanochen cyanoptera
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<birdfyi-bird slug="cyanochen-cyanoptera"></birdfyi-bird>The Blue-winged Goose (Cyanochen cyanoptera) is a bird species in the family Anatidae (ducks, geese & swans), within the order Anseriformes (waterfowl). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 65.2 cm and a weight of 1.8 kg. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Near Threatened.
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About
A medium-sized grey-brown goose-like duck with distinctive pale blue-grey wing patches visible in flight. Endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands. Grazes on short grass near mountain rivers and streams. Monogamous; pairs are permanent. Threatened by agricultural intensification and overgrazing.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 65.2 cm | 25.7 in |
| Weight | 1796.25 g | 63.36 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Mostly dull gray-brown; head paler gray. Distinctive pale blue wing patch conspicuous in flight. Underparts slightly paler. Bill and legs pinkish-gray. Sexes similar. Endemic to Ethiopian highlands.
Habitat & Range
Alpine and subalpine grasslands, riverbanks, and marshy meadows at 2,800–4,200 m on the Ethiopian Highlands. Grazes along stream and river margins. Strongly tied to highland wetlands near cold mountain streams.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Incubation: 30-34 days. Fledging: 85-100 days.
Clutch Size
4-12
Sound
Song
A soft, nasal bleating call from Ethiopian highland wetlands. The NT status and restricted Afroalpine range mean vocalizations are poorly documented in systematic detail.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes (Waterfowl) |
| Family | Anatidae (Ducks, Geese & Swans) |
| Genus | Cyanochen |
| Species | Cyanochen cyanoptera |
Distribution
Blue-winged Goose has been recorded in 5 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Blue-winged Goose live?
Is the Blue-winged Goose endangered?
How does the Blue-winged Goose nest?
What does the Blue-winged Goose sound like?
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What order and family does the Blue-winged Goose belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Anatidae family