Not widely used in fly tying.
The Upland Goose (Magellan Goose) in the Falklands is a distinct race, evolving differently from its continental counterpart, the Magellan goose. Falkland birds are sedentary and more docile, with the population estimated at around 150,000 pairs. The males are striking with white plumage marked by black, while the females are cinnamon brown with barred features. They nest close to water, favoring grasslands and coastal meadows during the austral summer.
Upland geese, herbivores specializing in plant matter, show sexual dimorphism in plumage. Males exhibit white heads and breasts, while females have reddish-brown heads. Two interbreeding morphs exist for males, resulting in either black-barred or white breast plumage. Molting occurs between late November and early January, with some skipping the process for potential energetic advantages. The greater Magellan geese, the largest in the Chloephaga genus, have stable insular subpopulations, but continentally, there’s a recent decline. They’re characterized by their distinctive appearance, unique behaviors, and the fascinating divergence observed in their evolution.
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