H.J. Ruiz – Avian101

Set # 231

Canada Goose

Canada Goose

The Canada Goose is native to North America. It breeds in Canada and the northern United States in a wide range of habitats. The Great Lakes region maintains a very large population of Canada geese. Canada geese occur year-round in the southern part of their breeding range, including the northern half of the United States’ eastern seaboard and Pacific coast, and areas in-between. Between California and South Carolina in the southern United States and in northern Mexico, Canada geese are primarily present as migrants from further north during the winter.

Graylag Goose

Graylag Goose

The Greylag Goose (Anser anser) is a species of large goose in the waterfowl family Anatidae and the type species of the genus Anser. It has mottled and barred grey and white plumage and an orange beak and pink legs. A large bird, it measures between 74 and 91 centimetres (29 and 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 is the ancestor of the domestic goose, having been domesticated at least as early as 1360 BC. The genus name is from anser, the Latin for “goose”.

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. Some populations, such as those in Southern England and in urban areas across the species’ range, are primarily resident and occupy the same area year-round.

© HJ Ruiz – Avian101

8 thoughts on “Photography of Birds – Set # 231”

1. The Greylag doesn’t look very impressed at all! Wonder what he has to be so miffed about?

   Stunningly beautiful composition on both shots, H.J.

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   • Thank you so much, D. 🙂

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2. Great information about both birds, HJ, and wonderful photos.

   Reply ↓

   • Thank you very much, my friend. 🙂

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3. I loved the top picture especially today, HJ.

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   • Thank you, Tom. 🙂

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4. Nice shots, HJ! I’ve heard of the Graylag Goose, enjoyed reading info on it, thanks!

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   • Thank you very much, Donna. 🙂

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