Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈe͡ɪlaɡ] (IPA) 
The word "greylag" is spelled with the letter combination "g-r-e-y-l-a-g," although it is also commonly spelled with an "a" instead of an "e" in the first syllable. The correct pronunciation is /ˈɡreɪlæɡ/ or gray-lag. The word refers to a species of large wild goose found in Europe and Asia, and is derived from the Middle English word "grey," meaning gray, and the Old Norse word "lag," meaning goose.
Greylag is a noun that refers to a large, gray or grayish-brown, wild goose species known as Anser anser. The word originates from the Old Norse word "greylagi," which means "gray goose." This particular waterbird is native to Europe and parts of western Asia. It is renowned for its distinctive appearance, with a robust body, a long neck, and a rounded head. The greylag goose typically measures around 30 to 36 inches in length, while its wingspan can reach up to 62 to 66 inches.
Known for their adaptability, greylag geese inhabit various wetland habitats such as marshes, lakes, and ponds, both in rural and urban areas. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of grasses, sedges, and grains. The greylag's natural migration patterns tend to be short, usually within the same country or region, rather than long-distance.
In addition to their ecological importance for maintaining wetland ecosystems, greylag geese also hold cultural significance. They have been domesticated for centuries, and various populations of domestic geese today descend from this species. Moreover, greylag geese have inspired folklore and literary references in different cultures due to their distinct appearance and migratory behavior. These geese are known for their loud, honking calls, often forming large, noisy flocks during migration or while roosting.
Despite being classified as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the greylag goose faces threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and disturbances to their breeding areas. Conservation efforts are crucial in maintaining healthy populations of this iconic waterfowl species.
The word "greylag" has its origin in the Old Norse language. It is derived from the combination of two words: "grey" meaning gray, and "lag" meaning goose. In Old Norse, they referred to this particular type of goose as "grálag", which eventually evolved into "greylag" in English.
