If you’ve lived in Northeast Ohio for any period of time, you know what how persistent the geese can get around here.
Canada Geese are protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Act of 1918 which makes it illegal to harm or injure a goose and damage or move its eggs and nest, without a Federal permit.
And the price is pretty steep. Not complying with the Federal Act can result in fines ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. This fine can also apply to an untrained dog’s actions!
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to keep geese at bay on your property.
- Make some noise
Harassing the geese is a good way to ensure they don’t stick around. There are commercial devices that can assist you. http://reedjoseph.com/pyrotechnics.htm - Predator decoys
Decoys work if you move them regularly (daily). They must be moved to have any effect. Once a goose suspects it’s a fake, you can forget about it. http://www.amazon.com/Flambeau-Predator-Masters-Series-Howler/dp/B001HRXUN4 - Chase them around
Walk your property and force them to move. An umbrella or broom can help keep them at a safe distance. - Do not feed them
That probably goes without saying…but you should also top filling your bird feeders in the summer. Remove any food sources they may be attracted to. - Modify the habitat
If you have a pond, let the grass grow tall around it. Geese don’t like to hang out where predators could hide. - Green laser pointers
Geese are afraid of high powered laser pointers, especially around dusk or overcast days. Just move the dot around on the ground near them. https://www.laserglow.com/GGA# - Let your dog out
Geese are afraid of dogs. A well trained dog can be a great deterrent, just be certain your canine companion does not harm the goose. - Be persistent
Once the goose nests in mid-spring, they are going to be around until the goslings fledge months later.
Remember that physically harming the goose or destroying the nest is prohibited by law unless you have a permit. For questions or additional information, contact Mentor Natural Resources at (440) 974-5720 ext. 2403 or
Source: Mentor Natural Resources