BLUE-WINGED GOOSE Cyanochen cyanoptera

Another species with no close affinities, endemic to Ethiopia, its closest relative is probably Andean Goose but it is yet another monotypic family. It is primarily a highland species and spends most of the year in pairs, fairly thinly spread, around marshes and other water bodies. A post breeding moult may be responsible for larger gatherings (up to 100) seen at lower altitude during the rainy season. A fairly tame bird (religious beliefs prevent hunting in Ethiopia) which flies rarely, over short distances and without attaining any great height.

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