Papers in the Biological Sciences
Date of this Version
2010
Abstract
Cape Barren Goose
Several recent studies have suggested that this unusual Australian gooselike bird is not very closely related to either the true geese or the sheldgeese, although it shares some traits with both groups. It has some unique traits, such as its unusually swollen bill, its adaptations to a terrestrial existence on the coastline and islands of the Bass Strait, and its very simple syringeal structure. Like the freckled duck, it is perhaps best considered as a survivor of a group transitional between the two major subfamilies of waterfowl that exist at the present time.
Comments
In Ducks, Geese, and Swans of the World, by Paul A. Johnsgard. Electronic edition copyright © 2010 Paul A. Johnsgard.