Most geese live about 10–20 years, but some individuals make it into their 30s and even 40s in captivity.

Quick Scoop

  • Wild geese typically live around 10–20 years, depending on species and local dangers like predators and hunting.
  • Domestic or pet geese often reach 12–20 years, and well-cared-for birds can sometimes live 25–30+ years.
  • Canada geese are among the longest‑lived; many reach 10–24 years, and one wild bird was recorded at 33 years and 3 months.
  • The oldest known goose on record (a captive bird named George) lived 49 years and 8 months.

Wild vs. Pet Geese

  • In the wild, lifespan is often cut short by predators, harsh weather, disease, and human hunting, so many geese never reach their maximum potential age.
  • As pets or farm birds, geese with good food, clean water, safe shelter, and vet care can live much longer, often into their 20s.

Species examples

  • Canada goose: commonly 10–24 years, with rare individuals past 30.
  • Greylag, barnacle, swan, and other domestic-derived breeds: often around 12–20 years, sometimes up to 25–30 in ideal care.

So if you’re looking at a single goose, planning for a possible 20–25‑year commitment is realistic, with a small chance of it living even longer under excellent care.

Bottom note: Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.