Active: April
The Canada goose is a large gray-bodied bird with a black head and a long black neck. The best field mark is the large white cheek and throat patch. The sexes are alike. The size of this goose varies considerably – some are the size of a large duck and others are two to three times larger. At least 10 distinct subspecies exist.
Learn More: ODNR Species Guide Index
Canada Geese are extremely adaptable. However, they are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and it is illegal to remove the birds, eggs, or nests while in use unless proper permits have been acquired through the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
The best practice is to prevent geese from taking up residence and efforts must be prompt and persistent. Geese need proximity to water and cover for their nesting sites.
Canada geese mainly feed on Kentucky bluegrass in Dublin. This the primary grass planted throughout the city. Geese also like easy access to ponds, especially when molting renders them flightless.
Feeding waterfowl is prohibited in the City of Dublin. Feeding encourages animals to congregate and this often leads to the spread of disease and property damage. Furthermore, food provided by humans often lacks proper nutrition for wildlife.
For more information on Canada Geese or to obtain permits to remove nests visit: http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/species-and-habitats/nuisance-wildlife
To see the city’s ordinance visit: http://dublinohiousa.gov/government/city-code/
A few tips to deter geese are:
- Plant trees and shrubs to block flight paths.
- Allow tall plants to grow around ponds, blocking easy access to water.
- Use frightening devices such as flags, balloons, scarecrows, and motion activated sprinklers.
- Allow ponds to freeze in winter (turn off aerators and fountains).
- Be persistent and constantly chase geese off your property early in the spring, before nesting.
Canada Geese are extremely adaptable. However, they are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and it is illegal to remove the birds, eggs, or nests while in use.
The best practice is to prevent the geese from taking up residence and efforts must be prompt and persistent to accomplish this. Geese need proximity to water and cover for the nesting sites. To deter geese:
- Do Not Feed Them. Although most people will welcome a pair of geese that pair can easily become 50 geese within five years.
- Eliminate vegetation in and around ponds.
- Plant trees and shrubs to block flight paths.
- Use frightening devices such as flags, balloons, scarecrows, and water spraying devices.
- Allow ponds to freeze in winter (turn off aerators and fountains).
- Be persistent and constantly chase geese off your property early in the spring. Do not let them feel comfortable; chase them to encourage them to move elsewhere.
Aside from droppings the most common complaint from human-goose interaction involves injuries to humans as a result of a gander protecting the female, the nest, or the nesting territory. After hatching both the male and female will protect the goslings.
Barbara Ray | Nature Education Coordinator | City of Dublin
614.410.4730 | bray@dublin.oh.us
