Within the family Anatidae, subfamily Anserinae, is the tribe Anserini, consisting of the swans and geese. These are the largest waterfowl, and are broadly characterized by long necks and noniridescent colouration.

Among the geese, there are 2 major genera (following Delacour & Mayr). Anser geese typically have pink, orange or grey legs & bills, and serrated bills.
Branta are invariably black. In addition, Branta bills are generally softer, without conspicuous serrations. The genus Anser is considered less specialized than Branta.
Brief descriptions of the species in both genera (derived with permission from original pages designed & maintained by Maurice Field at the University of Tennessee at Martin) are available for both Anser and Branta genera.

Note: This is still a work in progress. Eventually, there will be detailed species accounts and current conservation status.