Canada geese are a federally protected migratory species that can be found in significant numbers in Mentor. It’s not uncommon to see them cast a curious eye towards nearby humans as they forage in opens spaces throughout the city.
Many of us have fond childhood memories of feeding geese in the park without realizing that feeding does more harm than good. Feeding can lead to normalization with human contact as well as creating an artificial food source which encourages geese to overstay their migratory pattern as well as take up permanent residence in the city.
The mess they leave behind poses a health threat to humans, domestic animals, as well as other native species. The average goose can produce from one to one-and-a-half pounds of feces per day with movements as frequent as every twenty minutes. Their feces can carry bacteria inclusive of Escherichia coli (E Coli), Listeria moncytogenes, Salmonella, and Campylobacter jejuni, which can contaminate ponds and puddles.
Last year, Mentor City Council passed Ordinance No. 23-0-077 which declared the Canada goose as a “Nuisance Health Risk Animal” which prohibits persons from knowingly harboring or feeding nuisance animals – a fourth-degree misdemeanor in Mentor.
With over 1,200 acres of parkland, Mentor is a great place to enjoy nature year-round. As for the animals, it’s best to let them stick to their natural diet.
For additional information on Canada geese, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website