Greylag Goose
Photo: W. Bulach · CC BY-SA 4.0
Bird

Greylag Goose Facts

Anser anser

BirdHerbivore

The greylag goose (Anser anser) is a species of large goose in the waterfowl family Anatidae and the type species of the genus Anser. It has mottled and barred grey and white plumage and an orange beak and pink legs.

Lifespan
Up to 31 years (maximum recorded longevity)

Greylag Goose Facts at a Glance

The greylag goose (Anser anser) is a species of large goose in the waterfowl family Anatidae and the type species of the genus Anser. It has mottled and barred grey and white plumage and an orange beak and pink legs.

It belongs to the family Anatidae in the order Anseriformes. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; the source names below document the review basis.

Greylag Goose Conservation Status

Greylag Goose is listed here as Least Concern. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.

Quick facts

Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
Up to 31 years (maximum recorded longevity)
Weight
3,302.41 g

Fun facts

  • Acorns are sometimes consumed, and on the coast, seagrass (Zostera sp.) may be eaten.
  • The tubers of sea clubrush (Bolboschoenus maritimus) are also taken as well as fruits and water plants such as duckweed (Lemna) and floating sweetgrass (Glyceria fluitans).
  • They also consume small fish, amphibians, crustaceans, molluscs and insects.

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Sources and image credit

Animal facts are reviewed against the references below. The photograph remains available under the stated license.