Scientific Name: Anser anser Common Name: Greylag Goose
Identifying Features: Orange or pink bill, pink legs and feet, large in size, bulky body, a thick and long neck, large head, greyish brown feathers, darker head and paler breast
Fun Facts:
- They have become an invasive species in several areas. As a consequence, farmers’ problems caused by goose grazing on farmland has increased considerably.
- They tend to pair bond in long-term monogamous relationships. Most such pairs are probably life-long partnerships, though 5 to 8% of the pairs divorce and re-mate.
- In Ancient Egypt, geese symbolised the sun god Ra. In Ancient Greece and Rome, they were associated with the goddess of love.
- Back then, their feathers served to fletch arrows. Goose feathers were used as quill pens as well.
This image was clicked by Edmund Kennerley – via Flickr.
Where have you seen this bird? Let us know in the comments below. You can also share a photo of this bird clicked by you by sending it to birdwatcher@delhigreens.org
