How to Get Rid of Geese Around Toronto’s Harbourfront Properties
Goose control in Toronto is a growing issued these days. The citie's harbourrfront properties continue to record an increase in the Canada goose population - condos, parks, marinas, patios, and green roofs are prime targets. Iit is important to get rid of geese near the harbourfront swiftly to avoid cleanup of the subsequent mess, mitigate the risks of health and safety hazards as well as minimize a loss of reputation.
Goose Removal in the Harbourfront Area
So, Why Do Geese Love the Harbourfront So Much?
- Toronto's waterfront offers abundant green space and manicured lawns (ideal for goose grazing);
- The proximity to water provides plenty of safety for nesting and escape from land-dwelling predators;
- Because of constant human traffic, urban environments tend to discourage the presence of natural predators;
- Human presence also means supplementary wildlife feeding - intentional or accidental.
The Impact of Geese Infestations on Harbourfront Properties
Property Damage
Excessive goose grazing leads to lawn destruction and the resulting fecal matter contaminates pathways, docks, and buildings.
Health Risks
Geese, like many bird species, carry and transmit a slew of diseases through feces and feathers, both bacterial and parasitic in nature. Some examples are Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, Cryptosporidium and Giardia.
Safety Concerns
Canada geese are fiercely protective of their nests and offspring and known for aggressive behavior, particularly during the spring and early summer. Additionally, there are increased risks of slip-and-fall accidents due to wet and slippery surfaces from droppings.
Environmental Impact
Excessive goose droppings degrade water quality in the harbour. This becomes an even bigger concern for smaller bodies of water.
Most Affected Harbourfront Properties
- Condominium Rooftops & Green Spaces – they are ideal for nesting due to their height, warmth, and safety.
- Marinas, Floating Docks & Ferry Landings – these provide perfect resting zones for geese with minimal disturbance.
- Public Parks & Trails (HTO Park, Harbour Square Park) – with short grass, access to water, and food dropped by tourists, Toronto's parks make for perfect goose habitats.
- Restaurant Patios & Courtyards – food-seeking geese are persistent beggars and leave an unsanitary mess.
- Event Spaces & Open Waterfront Lots – geese often disrupt public events and make areas unusable.
Challenges of Waterfront Goose Control
- Geese feel protected near water — escape routes, open views, and nesting privacy.
- Noise deterrents and decoys are largely ineffective and inappropriate for public settings.
- Legal protection under the Migratory Birds Convention Act demands permits for any and all goose control or removal methods.
- Nests may be hidden or inaccessible under benches and shrubs, around HVAC units, on rooftops, or below docks.
Should You Wait to Deal with a Canada Goose Problem?
No, you should not. Your problem, much like a flock of geese, will increase exponentially with time. Here's why:
- Canada geese return to the same nesting location to hatch 5-7 goslings every year.
- Nesting geese become territorial and aggressive — a public safety issue.
- Goose droppings carry bacteria and parasites, stain surfaces, and increase fall/injury risks.
Read more: How to Get Rid of Geese Around Toronto’s Harbourfront Properties
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