Bar-headed Goose vs Australian Shelduck

In short

The Bar-headed Goose and Australian Shelduck are both large waterfowl but can be distinguished by their head markings and overall coloration. The Bar-headed Goose has distinctive black bars on its head, while the Australian Shelduck features a more uniform head with a white ring around the neck.

Identification tips

• Look for the black bars on the head of the Bar-headed Goose.
• Check for the white neck ring and chestnut body of the Australian Shelduck.
• Consider the geographic location: Bar-headed Geese are native to Asia, while Australian Shelducks are found in Australia.
• Listen for vocal differences: honking for Bar-headed Goose, whistling for Australian Shelduck.

Size

Both species are large waterfowl, but the Bar-headed Goose generally appears more slender compared to the bulkier Australian Shelduck.

Plumage

The Bar-headed Goose is primarily gray with two prominent black bars on its head, while the Australian Shelduck has a striking chestnut body with a white neck ring and dark head.

Behaviour

Both species are often seen in flocks, but the Bar-headed Goose is known for high-altitude migration, which is not typical for the Australian Shelduck.

Habitat

Bar-headed Geese are typically found in high-altitude lakes and wetlands in Asia, whereas Australian Shelducks are found in a variety of wetlands across Australia.

Voice

The Bar-headed Goose has a loud, honking call, while the Australian Shelduck's call is more of a whistling sound.