A family of Egyptian geese has taken up residence at a San Antonio golf course and local residents say they've "adopted" them, checking on their well-being.

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The two parents and six goslings are a long way from their native Africa, and may have escaped from the San Antonio Zoo or could be pets that wandered off, the San Antonio Express-News reported Sunday.

Sharon Sander has been watching out for the family at Brackenridge Park Golf Course since she discovered them while walking to a fitness class.

"They are really beautiful," she said. "They are bigger than mallards and have a weird call."

Lynn Cuny, founder of a local wildlife rescue center, says she's rescued several Egyptian geese in the past.

"A lot of people keep them as pets because they are so unusual-looking," Cuny said. "But city life for a bird of that size can be kind of tricky."

"The geese need food, water and safety," Cuny said. "With cars, dogs and kids with BB guns, that can be hard. However, if the geese do find a safe environment with family members nearby, the geese will tend to stay put."

The San Antonio River flows through the Brackenridge golf course, so the geese do have access to water.

Sander, meanwhile, is keeping an eye on the avian family.

"I've been watching them since the babies were just little fuzz balls," Sander said. "The other day I even got the dad to eat food out my hand. A little organic bread every now and then can't hurt them."