Notes:
a large goose-like bird that lives and nests on grassy plains and marshes; feeds mostly on succulent water plants; has sharp bony spurs on its wings that it uses to defed against predators and other intruders into its territory; highly aggressive; walks on its sturdy legs and long non-webbed toes; purported to have the loudest voice (a scream) of any avian species.
large; gray-bodied; red patch on face; crest (Zoo; 2011-11-20)
note the sharp bony spurs onthe leading edge of wings (Zoo; 2011-11-20)
pinkish legs; chicken-like bill; black collar (Zoo; 2011-11-20)
juvenile; more mottled-looking and less crested (Zoo; 2008-11-30)
adult posing for a portrait (Zoo; 2011-11-20)
frontal view; generally an intimidating bird (Zoo; 2011-11-29)