Telltale signs that geese are nesting or are about to nest:
- “Fighting” and squawking
- Single goose consistently in a strange place and adamant about being there
- Pecking and attacking glass doors and windows
- Goose lying head and neck down attempting to “hide”
- 2 or more geese just hanging out at the far end of pond or grass area everyday
- Defiant goose that is not in the least intimidated by you charging back
- Goose that comes at you hissing, mouth open
- Very aggressive goose that attacks humans, dogs, and/or cars
When is nesting season and where do geese typically nest?
Nesting season begins early March and can continue through late May. Nesting spots can be next to a pond or a half mile away. Geese typically like to nest where approaching predators can be easily spotted. Against buildings and parking islands have become favorite spots in urban areas.
Common Nesting materials include:
- Roof gravel
- Mulch
- Grass
- Her own down
- Trash
Humans are not the enemy
Because humans are not perceived as predators, establishing nests next to or above doorways, sidewalks, busy bike paths, golf greens, playgrounds and parks has become all too common. The goose will sit on her nest 28 days making it scary at times; especially if she and her mate are aggressively protecting the nest. Once all goslings are hatched, the family quickly moves to the closest pond for protection of the babies.
The Migratory Bird Treaty
Keep in mind that the Canada Goose is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty. Once eggs are present in the nest, you cannot disturb the nest or harass the goose and gander until you have obtained the proper permit from your state division of wildlife.
What to do when you find geese on your property
Aggressive birds can be a real liability risk to your property. Attacking geese typically go for your head, causing you to duck and use your arms as protection, and then back peddling resulting in a fall. For elderly people this can lead to catastrophic consequences with broken hips, ribs and shattered ankles.
Geese are incredible animals and at Geese Partners we do our best to make sure geese, people, businesses, and common areas like parks, hospitals, etc. can coexist happily. There are many situations where geese and nesting geese create an at-risk environment for humans and businesses.
Hire a Geese Control Team
There is no single quick fix that will resolve human-goose conflicts at every site. But, well-designed integrated programs can resolve conflicts and that’s why Geese Partners is the experts on Martha’s Vineyard.
This is where we come in! We are the eco-friendly expert geese control on Martha’s Vineyard. Contact us today to learn more!