Cape Barren Goose vs Upland Goose
Cereopsis novaehollandiae versus Chloephaga picta
Play a quiz with Cape Barren Goose and Upland Goose
Cape Barren Goose
Upland Goose
In short
The Cape Barren Goose and the Upland Goose can be distinguished by their bill and plumage. The Cape Barren Goose has a distinctive greenish-yellow cere on its bill, while the Upland Goose lacks this feature. Plumage differences are also notable, with the Cape Barren Goose being predominantly grey and the Upland Goose showing more contrasting patterns, especially in males.
Identification tips
Look for the greenish-yellow cere on the Cape Barren Goose's bill, which is absent in the Upland Goose. Note the grey plumage with black spots on the Cape Barren Goose versus the contrasting plumage of the Upland Goose, especially the white and black-barred pattern in male Upland Geese. Listen for the low-pitched honk of the Cape Barren Goose compared to the higher-pitched call of the Upland Goose.
Size
Both species are large geese, but the Cape Barren Goose is generally bulkier and more robust compared to the Upland Goose.
Plumage
The Cape Barren Goose is mostly grey with black spots on its wings, whereas the Upland Goose has a more contrasting appearance; males are white with black-barred flanks, and females are brown with a barred pattern.
Behaviour
Both species are primarily ground-dwelling and graze on grasses, but the Cape Barren Goose is more likely to be seen in open, grassy areas, while the Upland Goose may be found in more varied habitats including upland regions.
Habitat
Cape Barren Geese are typically found in southern Australia, often on islands and coastal areas. Upland Geese inhabit southern South America, including grasslands and upland areas.
Voice
The Cape Barren Goose has a distinctive, low-pitched honking call, while the Upland Goose's call is higher-pitched and more melodious.