Greylag Goose

The Greylag Goose is a large, heavy-bodied grey-brown bird with a thick neck, a bright orange bill, and pink legs. Its feathers show varying dark stripes on the belly and pale grey patches on the front part of the wings, which can be seen when it flies. Adult geese usually weigh between three and four kilograms, with a wingspan close to two metres. The bird is found widely across Britain, especially common in Scotland. It has become more common as a permanent resident in England after being brought back through conservation efforts. In winter, the number of Greylag Geese increases as birds from Iceland arrive at well-known wetland areas. Greylag Geese prefer a combination of wetland and farmed land habitats. They rest on lakes, reservoirs, and estuaries, while feeding in grassy fields and crop fields. Outside the breeding season, they are very social, often gathering in large groups that feed carefully across pastures. Their loud, nasal honking calls are a familiar sound in wetland areas throughout the year.