Anser

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


Anser is a genus of geese in the Anatidae family. The genus includes the greylag goose (Anser anser), the pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus), and the greater white-fronted goose (Anser albifrons) among others. These birds are typically found in the Northern Hemisphere and are known for their migratory behavior.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The genus Anser was introduced by the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in 1758 in the tenth edition of his Systema Naturae. The name Anser is the Latin word for "goose".

Species[edit | edit source]

The genus Anser includes the following species:

Description[edit | edit source]

Members of the genus Anser are medium to large-sized birds with a robust body, long neck, and large wings. They have a characteristic honking call and are known for their strong, direct flight. The plumage is generally grey or brown with white markings on the underparts and tail.

Habitat and Distribution[edit | edit source]

Anser species are found in a variety of habitats including wetlands, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They breed in the Arctic and subarctic regions and migrate to more temperate areas during the winter.

Behavior[edit | edit source]

These geese are highly social birds, often forming large flocks during migration and in their wintering grounds. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, roots, and seeds. During the breeding season, they nest on the ground, often in colonies.

Conservation[edit | edit source]

Several species within the genus Anser are of conservation concern due to habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Conservation efforts are in place to protect their breeding and wintering habitats.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD