Kelp Goose

The kelp goose is 55 to 65 cm (22 to 26 in) long. Males of the nominate subspecies weigh 2.54 to 2.58 kg (5.6 to 5.7 lb) and females 2.00 to 2.02 kg (4.4 to 4.5 lb). Subspecies C. h. malvinarum is heavier: Males weigh 3.25 to 3.60 kg (7.2 to 7.9 lb) and females 2.05 to 2.80 kg (4.5 to 6.2 lb). The two subspecies have the same plumage but the sexes are completely different. Adult males are entirely white but for a black bill with a pink spot on the maxilla and yellow legs and feet. Adult females have a pale brown crown and chocolate brown head, neck, and mantle. Voice: Male and female kelp geese have different vocalizations: Males make a "whistled 'si-si-si'" and females "low honking 'arnk-arnk', 'ooer' or 'ooeroo' calls". Very young chicks make "a double-noted 'cheep'."