Spur-winged Goose

Plectropterus gambensis (Linnaeus, 1766)

Spur-winged Goose, Plectropterus gambensis, is a waterbird in the Anatidae family and belongs to the order Anseriformes. It is widespread across Africa and is associated with wetlands. The species is placed in its own subfamily, Plectropterinae, because it has distinctive anatomical traits not shared with other anatids. It is one of the largest African waterfowl and is often described as the world’s largest goose on average. The bird is mainly black, with a white face, broad white wing patches and pinkish red legs.

Order

Anseriformes

Family

Anatidae — Ducks, Geese, Swans

Breeding range

Africa: widespread