Scientific Name: Anseranas semipalmata

The magpie goose is distinctively black and white and has a long neck. Its length from beak to tail is 75-90cm It is characterised by a strange knob on top of the head, usually larger in males. The legs and feet are pale orange in colour.

Did You Know? The magpie goose is also known as the pied goose and is a favourite food of north Australian aborigines.

Habitat: Magpie geese are usually found in large flocks in tropical wetlands, wading in shallow waters where they graze.All breeding takes place in northern Australia but outside this time they wander further south, as far as northern New South Wales.

Diet: The diet consists mostly of aquatic plants although some small invertebrates are also taken. They also eat certain crops, particularly rice, and have become some what of an agricultural pest in some areas.

Reproduction: Breeding season is usually from March to April but may vary according to rainfall. Males will usually pair with two females, each laying 5 to 8 yellowish white eggs on a floating mound of rushes. Incubation lasts for 24-25 days.

Behaviour: Huge flocks of geese congregate to feed on the flood plains at certain times of the year. They prefer open country where approaching predators, such as dingoes, can be easily seen.