27 July 2009

Werribee Open Range Zoo is celebrating the arrival of eight tiny Cape Barren Geese chicks.

The chicks, born recently in two clutches, are healthy, active and staying close to their mothers in the Volcanic Plains walking area.

The Cape Barren Goose is one of the world's rarest species of waterfowl. They are unique to Australia and mainly located along the southern coastline and nearby offshore islands.

Their preferred habitat is native grassland which is why they enjoy living in the Zoo's Volcanic Plains.

Cape Barren Geese are believed to mate for life with their breeding season from May to  September.

So visitors should see a lot more chicks at the Zoo very soon!