Are Geese Nesting On Your Property?

Mar 5, 2018

Have you ever wondered why that same goose is sitting alone in a parking lot, attacking the window or glass door, attacking people out of nowhere, and always in the same spot for 3-4 weeks? These are all classic behaviors of nesting geese. The female, male, and non-mated offspring all have a part to play every spring.

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

Your Licensed Nuisance Wild Animal Control Operator is well versed on the rules, regulations and techniques in dealing with these amazing creatures of nature that can become a real danger and risk to your property. Here’s the information for Ohio.

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 Go Geese Go 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. If you are having issues with geese, the accompanying risk can be avoided by hiring a licensed professional. Contact Go Geese Go today for more information.