Greylag Goose
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The largest native wild goose species in Europe, and the only breeding goose species in Hungary. The greylag goose was declared strictly protected in Hungary in 1954, and over the decades, due to strict conservation measures, its population has become increasingly large and stable. As a result, in 2012, the ministry lifted its protection, and it is now legally hunted with seasonal bag limits.
A distinctive feature of its plumage is its two-tone wing colouration when viewed from below: the dark leading edge of the wing is strikingly pale gray. Their legs are pale pink, while their beak is light pink or orange. Their call is a loud, nasal honking, similar to that of domestic geese.
They breed in many regions across Europe, with their range extending as far as China. They prefer open habitats near water, especially reed beds around lakes and marshes. In Komárom-Esztergom County, the breeding population is estimated at 60-75 pairs. While they wander regionally, large numbers also migrate to Hungary for wintering.
In Hungary, it is a Natura 2000 qualifying species, and in Komárom-Esztergom County, it can be hunted from October to January with daily bag limits.
Illustration: Szabolcs Kókay – BirdLife Hungary– www.mme.hu
