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Trained Dogs and Falconry for Goose Control

Ever growing Canada geese populations, particularly in urban centers, call for an increase in goose control measures. The objective with all goose control efforts is to create an environment that geese perceive as unpredictable, unstable, unsafe, and unsuitable for nesting and breeding. In this article, we will explore the 2 most effective ways to accomplish that and have geese move on to more desirable locations on their own.

Trained Dogs for Goose Control: Ground-Based Deterrence

How it works

Dogs used to haze (or chase) geese, must be energetic, have excellent recall, and understand the goal. The goal, of course, is to move the birds off, not hurt or kill them. 

Advantages of Using Trained Dogs

  • Versatility
    Dogs can be used in a wide range of open and semi-open environments, including small bodies of water;

  • Immediate and Visible Impact
    Geese react quickly to the presence and movement of dogs - disbursing immediately;

  • Relatively Low Risk to Non-Target Species
    A skilled handler can direct the dogs effectively and focus their attention on geese only;

  • Can Cover Large Areas
    Experienced handlers and well-trained dogs can cover a lot of terrain in a relatively short amount of time.

Limitations of Using Trained Dogs

  • Water Limitations
    Large bodies of water present challenges as geese can simply move to the far end of a pond, rather than leave the area.;

  • Potential for Disturbance to Public
    Careful planning and execution is necessary to avoid alarming people or other animals and to manage public relations;

  • Handler Dependency
    The success of chasing geese with trained dogs is highly reliant on the skill and consistency of the handler;

  • Not Always Effective for Nesting Geese
    Once geese are nesting, they may not be so easily persuaded to leave their nests and eggs.

Ideal Situations and Locations for Trained Dogs

  • Parks and Recreational Areas
    The open grassy areas found in public parks are a perfect environment for Canada geese and can be managed by trained dogs and experienced handlers;

  • Golf Courses
    Similarly to parks, golf courses with short cut grass and water features are also prime real estate for geese. The use of dogs must be limited to times when there are no golfers on the premise;

  • Agricultural Fields
    Rural areas and agricultural fields are also plagued by flocks of geese and dogs can be effective, as long as crops aren't in danger of being trampled;

  • Airports and Airfields
    Managing geese on grassy areas adjacent to runways requires with careful coordination and safety protocols;

  • Waterfront Parks and Beaches
    Trained dogs can do a fantastic job keeping beaches or waterparks clear of geese.

Birds of Prey for Goose Control: Aerial Predation and the "Fear Factor"

How it Works

Large birds of prey are natural predators and recognized as such by geese and other pest birds. An eagle soaring above a flock of geese gets the message across that the best course of action is to leave the area immediately. 

  • Falconry offers a humane, effective, and environmentally friendly way to deter Canada geese;
  • Geese perceive the eagle in the air as a lethal threat, even though the eagle does not attack;
  • A skilled falconer fully in control of his bird is a must.

Advantages of Using Eagles

  • Geese recognize and fear aerial predators, leading to long-term avoidance of the area;
  • Birds of Prey can effectively deter geese on lakes, ponds, and rivers from the air;
  • Raptors can patrol extensive territories and all terrains;
  • Falconry offers a completely natural and non-evasive form of geese control;
  • The persistent threat of multiple days of eagles in the air can discourage gathering and nesting long term.

Read more: Trained Dogs and Falconry for Goose Control

 

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