In Diana Gabaldon's book "Voyager," the author highlights the deep emotional bonds between greylag geese, indicating that they mate for life. If one goose is killed, the surviving partner will come to mourn, showcasing their strong attachment and loyalty. This behavior emphasizes the importance of these relationships in the animal kingdom.
Furthermore, the text warns that if hunters do not take care to remove the grieving mate, it may suffer immensely, possibly leading to its death from heartbreak. This poignant description illustrates the profound connection these birds share and serves as a reminder of the impact of loss and mourning in nature.