Greylag Goose
(Anser anser)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Origin
Anser anser is native to Europe. Greylag goose were introduced to the United States as escaped or intentionally released domesticated birds.
Life Cycle
Adult A. anser plumage varies due to interbreeding with other geese species, but coloration ranges from white to completely grey to a mixture of each. Greylag goose are approximately 31.5 in. (80 cm) in length, have a wingspan of 64 in. (163 cm), and a weight range of 76-161 oz (2160-4650 g). A. anser migrate to the British Isles, eastern Mediterranean, France, Spain, the Netherlands, and North Africa in fall to overwinter in temperate climates. During the breeding season, Graylag goose are found in Scotland, Iceland, Scandinavia, Russia, Poland, and Germany. Females lay an average of 6 eggs per clutch with an incubation period of 27-28 days. After hatching, goslings fledge and are independent after 8 weeks.
Distribution
A. anser has been reported in Florida.
Control Efforts
In Europe, A. anser have impacted crops due to overpopulation.
https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Anser_anser/
https://www.britannica.com/animal/greylag
https://www.birds.cornell.edu/crows/domgeese.htm
https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/greylag-goose/
Anser anser is native to Europe. Greylag goose were introduced to the United States as escaped or intentionally released domesticated birds.
Life Cycle
Adult A. anser plumage varies due to interbreeding with other geese species, but coloration ranges from white to completely grey to a mixture of each. Greylag goose are approximately 31.5 in. (80 cm) in length, have a wingspan of 64 in. (163 cm), and a weight range of 76-161 oz (2160-4650 g). A. anser migrate to the British Isles, eastern Mediterranean, France, Spain, the Netherlands, and North Africa in fall to overwinter in temperate climates. During the breeding season, Graylag goose are found in Scotland, Iceland, Scandinavia, Russia, Poland, and Germany. Females lay an average of 6 eggs per clutch with an incubation period of 27-28 days. After hatching, goslings fledge and are independent after 8 weeks.
Distribution
A. anser has been reported in Florida.
Control Efforts
In Europe, A. anser have impacted crops due to overpopulation.
https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Anser_anser/
https://www.britannica.com/animal/greylag
https://www.birds.cornell.edu/crows/domgeese.htm
https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/greylag-goose/
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Animalia |
| Phylum: Chordata |
| Class: Aves |
| Order: Anseriformes |
| Family: Anatidae |
| Subfamily: Anserinae |
| Genus: Anser |
| Anser anser |
References
Common Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.
Scientific Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.