In spring, greylag geese migrate to their northern breeding grounds, where they build their nests on moors, marshes, lakes, and coastal islands. They often pair together for life and build their nests on the ground among plants. Three to five eggs are deposited in a clutch, which the female then incubates while the young are raised and protected by both parents. The birds go south as a family group in the fall, staying together until they split up the following year. They live in semi-aquatic areas such as estuaries, marshes, and flooded fields during the winter when they eat grass and frequently farm crops. Some populations are predominantly resident and stay in the same place year-round, such as those in southern England and metropolitan areas throughout the species' range.
Graylag Goose Specifications
Graylag Goose ID
The primary food source for greylag geese, primarily herbivorous, is grass. Greylag geese frequently graze alongside sheep or cows in pastures because short, rapidly growing grass is more nutrient-dense. Since it contains few nutrients, they must spend a large portion of their time feeding; the herbage travels quickly through the gut and is regularly passed through the urine. Greylag geese typically connect as a couple and engage in lengthy monogamy. Although 5 to 8% of these pairings break up and mate again with other geese, the majority of them are likely to have lifelong relationships. Despite the disapproval of their partners, birds in heterosexual pairings may act promiscuously.
