Like most bird species, Egyptian geese aggressively protect their nests from any potential threats. But when a baboon in South Africa’s Kruger National Park set its sights on a tasty goose egg snack, no amount of mobbing from the avian parents could deter the primate from its prize.
Colin Pretorius, Director of Marketing and Sales at Ngwenya Lodge, who filmed the action from his office on the southern edge of the reserve, explains: “I saw this baboon running up and realized that the goose was in great distress. on a mission and look completely fearless. He was accompanied by an army but was the only one determined to go to the place to enjoy the eggs. ”
Chacma baboons have a varied diet and will mock everything from roots to small livestock. Primates often feed on the ground, which makes nests like this one particularly vulnerable.
“This is its second attempt at finding a way back to the nest,” Pretorius said. “There are literally hundreds of Egyptian geese that have come and laid eggs in this area over the last few years so the breeding grounds are a great place to grab a snack. You won’t be discouraged. It’s a sight to behold. great statue to see.”
Egyptian geese build nests with reeds, leaves and grass, before lining them with feathers. These common waterfowl usually nest on the ground, but they have been known to build their homes in trees, on ledges, in burrows, on cliffs and sometimes even on buildings. Egyptian geese are believed to mate for life, so this is probably not the first time the duo has been raided by opportunistic predators. Unfortunately for the birds, this time the cocky baboon got ahead.
