ORNAMENTAL WATERFOWL. 121 
GENUS CHENALOPEX. 
This small genus resembles somewhat in colour the 
Sheldrakes, and in form the Geese; the birds are of a reddish 
colour, resembling that of a fox, from which they are often 
termed Foxy Geese. 
EGYPTIAN GOOSE. 
(Chenalopex Egyptiacus). 
The Egyptian Goose, as its name implies, isa native of 
Africa, extending from Egypt to the interior of the Cape Colony 
southwards, and repairing northwards to the neighbouring 
countries of Europe. Burchell states that he met with Chena- 
lopex Gigyptiacus at the Zak River, “which he frequently saw in 
the Colony in a domesticated state.” It may be identified on 
many of the old sarcophagi and bas-reliefs, where it is represented 
with singular fidelity in carving by the ancient Egyptians (by 
whom it was revered as an emblem of parental affection), while 
it is rudely delineated upon the pottery of the Nile. These 
birds are generally to be seen in considerable flocks on the banks 
of the rivers, and near ponds and tanks, uttering their peculiar 
cry, something between a bark and a quack, excepting during 
the breeding season, when they are usually met with in pairs. 
They are excellent swimmers and divers, and can progress 
under water for a considerable distance. They feed upon 
every description of vegetable, and obtain animal food from 
the mud of the shallow ponds of their native regions. Dr. 
Brehm, in his “ Life of Birds,” states that the young birds are 
passionately fond of locusts, but do not eat fish. The flesh is 
very coarse and dark. 
‘In places where no trees are to be met with, these birds may 
construct their nests upon the ground, but whenever there are woods 
coming to the waters’ edge, or even single trees of suitable dimensions, their 
