Phil's photos with the keyword: Greylag

The Greylag goose (Anser anser) is a large species of goose in the waterfowl family Anatidae. It has mottled and barred grey and white plumage and an orange beak and pink legs. A large bird, it measures between 74 - 91 centimetres (29 - 36 in) in length with an average weight of 3.3 kilograms (7.3 lb). Its distribution is widespread with birds from the north of its range in Europe and Asia migrating southwards to spend the winter in warmer places. It is the type species of the genus Anser and the ancestor of the domestic goose, having been domesticated at least as early as 1360 BCE. Greylag geese travel to their northerly breeding grounds in spring, nesting on moorlands, in marshes, around lakes and on coastal islands. They normally mate for life and nest on the ground among vegetation. A clutch of three to five eggs is laid; the female incubates the eggs and both parents defend and rear the young. The birds stay together as a family group, migrating southwards in autumn as part of a flock and separating the following year. During the winter they occupy semi-aquatic habitats, estuaries, marshes and flooded fields, feeding on grass and often consuming agricultural crops. (Wikipedia). Camera: Nikon D300s Processed with Nikon Capture NX2.