Geese

Geese are big birds that live near lakes, ponds, and rivers. They have long necks and webbed feet. Geese are famous for flying in a V-shape when they travel. They honk loudly as they fly.

Long Journeys

Geese fly far when the seasons change. This is called migration. Flying in a V-shape helps them save energy. The lead goose does the hardest work and others take turns in front.

A big flock of white snow geese gathered together.
A big flock of white snow geese gathered together. (Cephas / Wikimedia Commons)

Family Life

Geese often stay with the same partner for many years. They work together to raise their babies, called goslings. Goose parents are very protective and will chase away danger. Goslings learn to swim and fly from their parents.

Fun Facts

  • Some geese can fly as high as 29,000 feet in the air.
  • A group of geese on the ground is called a gaggle.
  • Geese can live for more than 20 years in the wild.

Did You Know?

Bar-headed geese can fly over Mount Everest, which is one of the tallest mountains in the world.