Animal Profiles
Birds

Goose

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Geese are grazing waterbirds. This account describes the greylag goose (Anser anser), a sociable species with grey-brown plumage and a heavy orange or pinkish bill.

Anser anser (goose)

Representative species: Anser anser.

Diliff · CC BY-SA

At a glance

Habitat
Wetlands, Grassland, Coast
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Grasses, roots and grain.

Classification

Common name
Goose
Browse group
Birds
Scientific name or taxon
Not specified in the source index
Source classification
Aves

Three things to know

  • Families often remain together in flocks.
  • It grazes on grasses and other plants.
  • Migrating flocks may form a V.

Habitat and range

Greylag geese inhabit Eurasian wetlands, with many European populations wintering farther south, including North Africa. Marshes, islands, estuaries, pastures and harvested fields provide seasonal feeding and nesting places.

Appearance and adaptations

Grey-brown feathers have pale edges, and the belly is lighter. The sturdy bill and pink-toned legs distinguish the bird from many darker geese.

Diet and behaviour

Grasses, roots, wetland plants and spilled grain form the main diet. Birds gather in family groups and larger flocks. Long journeys often use a V-shaped formation, while some populations remain resident.

Sources

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