Habitat: From tundra marshes and boreal swamps to lowland lakes and other wetlands. In winter on fields and increasingly in urban areas.

Appearance: In Europe, a common winter visitor, the largest and most widespread grey goose. In Belgium and the Netherlands, numerous to very numerous breeding bird – partially migratory – migrant and winter visitor in very large numbers.

Breeding season: March – August, ground nest usually near water in marshes or heathland, 4 – 6 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 74 – 84 cm, wingspan 147 – 180 cm, weight 2800 – 4300 grams, age 24 years.

Food: Plants, aquatic plants, seeds and berries.