Expert: Stephen Vantassel - 6/6/2008

Question
We have about three families of geese (about 40 geese total) and they are basically over running the barn and making a huge mess. How do ask they to leave nicely? I know there are laws about geese and do not want to hurt them, we just want them to leave.


Answer
First. avoid fertilizing your grass. Geese like new green shoots which fertilizer makes.
Second, let the grass grow as long as you can tolerate.
Understand that if you waited to long to do something, and the geese are in molt (a period where they can’t fly) then you have to wait till they can fly unless you get permission to perform a goose roundup, an activity that requires state and federal permits. How do you know if the geese are in molt? If you see young unable to fly with the adults, then the adults are in molt. Usually it is around June.  
Third, fence around the waterfront to prevent easy walk on walk off. (sure geese can fly over it, but they would prefer to walk and they can’t fly during the molt).
Fourth, allow shrubs to grow to reduce their line of sight. This makes them nervous as it makes it harder for them to see predators at a distance. (Don’t make straight walks to the water. Make them curved and border with bushes).
Fifth, when the state seeks to control geese DON’T FIGHT THEM. ENCOURAGE THEM.  
Note that lethal control requires a permit as it is a migratory bird, including addling.
Sixth, repellents are available. These products  are sprayed on the grass and make the geese nauseous. But it has to be reapplied every time the grass is cut.
Hazing geese can provide some short term relief, especially if done as soon as they begin to arrive and before they become attached to location. Hazing includes using dogs, pyrotechnics etc.  A new repellent is available called Methyl anthranihilate. It smells like grapes to us and drives all birds crazy because it irritates their sinuses.

As for danger to your children, if they stay away from geese, especially their nests, there shouldn’t be much of a danger. But wildlife is wildlife. You can’t predict their behavior with absolute certainty anymore than you can predict the behavior of your neighbor with absolute certainty.
Don’t bother with ultrasound. There is NO evidence that it works on geese.

Long term strategies include, egg addling, goose roundups, goose contraceptives and habitat modification.  The first three require permits and/or licenses.  To find a professional who can assist you visit  http://icwdm.org/VendorsService/default.asp  Be sure to read our tips on how to hire a qualified professional before hiring anyone!!!

More detailed information can be found at http://icwdm.org/handbook/birds/Waterfowl.htm     and http://icwdm.org/wildlife/geese.asp    I would strongly encourage you to read it carefully. There is also a lot more information at the site to utilize as well.  I should know, I run the site.

Disclaimer: As with any activity, remember that animal damage control comes with its own risks and problems which can include but are not limited to legalities, health threats, and personal liabilities. Be sure to follow all state laws governing wildlife and make sure you have a thorough understanding on how to resolve the animal damage complaint. My advice is only as good as your understanding of me and my understanding of your situation. If you have any questions be sure to write back.