A goose of another color

A few weeks ago I received a cellphone message from someone who regularly reads my newspaper feature. He told me he and his wife own a small pond where they have seen a strange-looking bird they think is called an Egyptian goose. That seemed odd to me, but I was definitely interested.

At the pond Jan. 4, it didn't take long to see the goose really was a wild Egyptian goose. I took my time getting into position on the pond levee and waited for this photo. The Egyptian goose is rare in Missouri. My research shows there are established wild populations in Florida, Texas and California.

I watched this lone goose feed for several minutes in the shallow water at the edge of the pond. When it finally spooked, it flew away over the treetops and was gone. I am sure it is a wild animal. Seeing this goose was a first for me.