The greylag goose 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. A large bird, it measures between 74 and 91 centimetres in length, with an average weight of 3.3 kilograms. Its distribution is widespread, with birds from the north of its range in Europe and Asia often migrating southwards to spend the winter in warmer places, although many populations are resident, even in the north. It is the ancestor of most breeds of domestic goose, having been domesticated at least as early as 1360 BCE. The genus name and specific epithet are from anser, the Latin for "goose". In the USA, its name has been spelled "graylag".
Region
Eurasia
Typical Environment
Breeds widely across northern and central Europe and parts of Central Asia, and winters farther south into southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Favors wetlands such as lakes, marshes, river floodplains, and coastal estuaries. Readily uses adjacent grasslands and agricultural fields for grazing. Increasingly, urban parks and reservoirs also host resident populations in some countries.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The greylag goose is the wild ancestor of most domestic goose breeds, with domestication dating back at least to ancient Egypt. It forms large, noisy flocks outside the breeding season and often flies in classic V-formations. Highly adaptable, it readily exploits agricultural fields in winter, which has aided population growth in many regions.
Head of an adult
Three eastern greylag geese (A. a. rubrirostris) at Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan, India
In a group, many pairs of eyes are on watch
Six eggs in the nest at Mekszikópuszta, Hungary
Female with goslings; Vaxholm, Sweden
Migrating flock
Greylag goose can gather in very large flocks of thousands of individuals.
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats; often in V-formations
Social Behavior
Monogamous pairs nest on the ground near water, often on islands or in reedbeds, and defend territories vigorously. Outside the breeding season they form large flocks, sometimes mixing with other goose species, and show strong site fidelity to traditional roosts and feeding areas. Family groups remain together through the first migration.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Loud, resonant honks given in series, often as a gabbling chorus when in flocks or during flight. Calls carry over long distances and include softer grunts and murmurs at close range. Alarm notes are sharper and more urgent.
Plumage
Overall pale grey-brown with mottled and barred body, paler underparts and white under tail. Upperwing is grey with darker flight feathers; tail has a white edge. Plumage appears smooth and evenly barred, with subtle contrast between head/neck and body.
Diet
Primarily grazes on grasses, sedges, and other herbaceous plants. Also takes agricultural grains and spilled cereals, especially in winter stubble fields. Will browse on roots, shoots, and aquatic vegetation; invertebrates are taken only incidentally.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in open pastures, meadows, and farmland near wetlands, commuting to lakes or estuaries to roost. In some regions it frequents urban parks and golf courses where short grass is maintained.
