Mauritius Sheldgoose

Alopochen mauritiana (Newton, E & Gadow, 1893)

Mauritius Sheldgoose, Alopochen mauritiana, was an extinct member of the Anatidae and was confined to Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. It is also known as the Mauritius shelduck. Records from the seventeenth century mention geese on the island, and later fossil remains from Mare aux Songes were linked to this bird. It was smaller than the Egyptian goose and had stronger legs. Accounts describe it as tame, living in groups, grazing, and usually remaining on the north side of Mauritius except in the dry season.

Order

Anseriformes

Family

Anatidae — Ducks, Geese, Swans

Breeding range

Indian Ocean: Mauritius (c Mascarenes)