Canada Goose
Facts: The US has 2 different types of Canada Goose- Resident and Migratory. They behave a little different but they are essentually the same bird. At one point the Canada Goose was nearly extict due to over hunting and habitat loss. In the 1960s, captive bred birds were released which helped boost the local populations. However, these birds at one point had clipped wings so they never learned the migration routes so they stayed local year round. Both are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Generally problems occur in spring and summer when birds are nesting and congrating in large numbers.
Problem:
Droppings on property- Geese like fresh mowed fields and grass as it allows for tender shoots (food) as well as unobstructed views for detecting danger. The best way to curb the problem is motion activated sprinklers, low fences or simply going out and telling them to shoo. Keep in mind that they are federally protected and harming them is a crime.
Aggressive geese (March to May)- Geese are very open as to where they will nest. Once a female finds a spot she likes, she will lay eggs no matter where it is (they commonly lay near entrances and in landscaping and ocassionally on or near the sidewalk). If a goose is acting aggressive during nesting season, it is due to a nest being near. If possible, avoid the area until the eggsa have hatched. If not possible you can use an open umbrella as a shield. Due to their instict, nests can not be relocated as the goose will abandon them and will sometimes build a replacement in the same spot. Geese generally will nest in the same spot each year. Due to their protected status, eggs can not be removed for transfer to a rehabber without DNR approval and the site being noted.
Aggressive geese outside of nesting season- Generally these are habituated geese that are used to eating out of the hand or near people. They know humans have food and start to seek them out. Generally they can be trained against it by oppening and closing an umbrella when the goose comes or by sounding off an air horn. If these do not work, contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabber about possible relocation.
Goose nest high off the gound (roof or balcony)- If the height is not more than 20 feet, there is no problem. Once the goslings leave the nest, they will follow mom down (goslings can drop about 20 feet without injury). If it is higher than that, call your local animal control or animal rescue. Generally they will come move the goslings down once they hatch as well as mom and dad.
People feeding geese-Geese or waterfowl in general (ducks, swans, etc) should never be fed human food, especially bread. Bread releases sugars too quickly into the bird's blood and causes Angel Wing, a wing and ocassionally other bone deformity that prevents flight as well as lack of feathers. While those effected do live normally, they are unable to fly and are more likely to be captured by preditors. If you are going to feed waterfowl, feed only cracked corn or commercially available goose/duck/waterfowl feed.
Geese creating road hazard- During nesting season, flocks will bring their babies to the water. It is during this time adults molt (shed old and damaged feathers and grow new ones) which also prevents them from flying. Being flock animals, some will lead with the young in the middle and others behind. The adults kind of act like crossing guards for the goslings. The best thing to do it just wait for them to cross. If it is a few solitary geese you can drive slowly while honking your horn and they will generally move out of the way.