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Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 05 May 2025

You've heard of raccoons in attics and sheds - but, did you know that they also burrow under brick walls and structures?

While many people are quite familiar with seeing raccoons in trees and consequently believe them to be excellent climbers, their ability to burrow under brick walls and foundations is a lesser known fact. Naturally occurring hollows are actually a preferred den location for raccoons. Recently, there have been a number of wildlife service calls dealing with getting rid of raccoons from under brick walls in the Aurora and Newmarket areas. Trapping and relocation in general has a very low rate of long term success, as raccoons tend to turn around and come right back. Let's look at how to spot a raccoon making a home beneath your brick wall or structure and what can be done about that.

Why Brick Walls Are a Raccoon Magnet

Again, hollow spaces, whether natural or man-made, make for wonderful raccoon dens. They are usually in locations with low traffic and low light and provide shelter from the elements. Raccoons are nocturnal and most active between the hours of dusk and dawn, while their days are mostly spent snoozing away.

Residential Structures

• Brick skirting/foundation on older homes
  Older homes in particular often have more brittle foundations, something that is easily exploited by a determined raccoon;
  
  
• Brick facades with gaps at ground level
  Of course, any structure with gaps that can be extended (if need be) also fits that bill.;
  
  
• Low exterior walls near gardens or compost bins
  Again, any space that affords protection and camouflage from above makes for a fine raccoon home. Added bonus, if such a space is located near human food sources.
  
  

Commercial/Institutional Sites

• Brick retaining walls in parking lots or walkways
  No different than in residential areas, a space below a retaining wall offers shelter and safety from predators;
  
  
• Hollow brick walls with access behind signage or utility boxes
  The less traffic, the better - and both signage and utility boxes don't see a whole lot of foot traffic;
  
  
• Wall cavities near garbage storage areas (restaurants, schools, etc.)
  Any space close to food disposal is perfect for the urban, opportunistic raccoon.
  
  

Identifying Raccoon Activity Under Brick Walls

Signs to Look For

• Visual Sightings
  Observing raccoons entering or exiting from gaps or openings at the base of brick walls, especially at dawn or dusk eliminates any ambiguity;
  
  
• Audible Clues
  You may be able to detect scratching, rustling, or vocalizations (chattering, whistling, or whining) emanating from under the wall;
  
  
• Paw Prints 
  In soft, sandy, or dusty soil or after heavy rain or snowfall, you may notice raccoon tracks near potential entry points;
  
  
• Droppings and Urine
  Look for an accumulation of fecal matter and the distinct odour of urine near the base of the wall or around entry points;
  
  
• Damage to Vegetation
  Soil may be disturbed and plants may be damaged near a brick wall where raccoons have built their den;
  
  
• Sagging or Shifting Bricks
  While potentially due to other factors, persistent digging underneath a wall can contribute to minor structural shifts;
  
  
• Unusual Pet Behaviour
  Observe your pets' behaviour along brick walls - this may well be a clue as to the location of raccoons nesting under brick walls.
  
  

Read more: How to Get Rid of Raccoons Living Under Brick Walls

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 01 May 2025

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 using dogs as a goose deterrent 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 the Public
  Careful planning and execution are 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 an effective goose management strategy, as long as crops aren't in danger of being trampled;
  
  
• Airports and Airfields
  Managing geese on grassy areas adjacent to runways requires 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 Canada 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 get rid of Canada geese;
• Geese perceive the eagle in the air as a lethal threat, even though the eagle does not attack;
• A skilled falconer who is 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

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 26 April 2025

While Canada geese are usually considered more of a nuisance, around airports a flock of geese can have catastrophic consequences. The one place you never want to encounter birds is around an aircraft. Bird Control around airports poses specific challenges and requires expertise beyond the norm. 

According to Transport Canada, the majority of bird strike incidents occur within the airport environment during the takeoff, climb, final approach, and landing phases of flight. Collisions with birds are a severe threat to the safety of the aviation industry. Human lives may be lost due to collisions and there is a constant threat of a major crash as a result of bird strikes. In addition, bird strikes cost airline companies as well as the military millions of dollars each year.

Canada Geese are a particularly large threat around GTA airports because of their size (no pun intended). A collision with such a large bird causes severe engine damage, broken windshields (or windscreens), and more.

Controlling and managing geese at airports is incredibly important to preserve human life and avoid damages and delays.

The Role of Nearby Structures in Attracting Geese to Airports

Green Spaces

Airports all over the world have plenty of grassy areas next to runways and taxiways. The grass is usually kept cut short - absolutely perfect for Canada geese.

Food Availability and The Landfill Connection

Besides the usual presence of human food leftovers on the ground or in unsecured trash cans, there is also the attraction of landfills which are often located near airports. Landfills attract geese and other pest birds as well as other wildlife.

Water Sources

Ontario's proximity to Lake Ontario as well as countless rivers, creeks and man-made bodies of water, are a haven for birds and other wildlife. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is surrounded by water and park space and a large number of resident geese. Hotels and golf courses around Pearson International Airport also attract a fair number of Canada geese.

Why Does This Matter to Airports?

Geese frequently travel between feeding and nesting areas, crossing flight paths and increasing the risk of bird strikes. Airport authorities should work with local businesses and municipalities to implement bird deterrent systems and strategies beyond airport property.

Why Geese Are Particularly Dangerous Near GTA Airports

• Size and Weight
  Canada Geese can have a wing span of almost 70inches and weigh up to 14lbs. A midair collision with even just one bird of this size often has dire consequences. 
  
  
• Number of Geese
  Because Geese live and travel in flocks - often very large flocks - there is a high risk of bird strikes involving more than one bird.
  
  
• Flight Paths and Altitude
  Canada Geese generally fly low enough to intersect with departing or arriving aircraft. There is little recourse for airline pilots, short of a rejected take-off or go-around procedure on approach. 
  
  
• Attractive Habitats
  As mentioned earlier, expansive grassy areas and proximity to water often attracts Canada Geese to Toronto's airports.
  
  
• Seasonal Migration
  Another layer of complexity is added during the fall and spring migration. Hundreds of Canada geese set out and travel together, increasing the likelihood of a mid-air disaster.
  
  

Effective Humane Geese Control Strategies for Airports

Because of airports being such busy and highly sensitive environments, all goose control solutions require precise planning and execution. Airport managers may forbid one or require another. Here are some of the geese removal techniques used around airports:

• Birds of Prey (Falconry)
  Falconry using birds of prey (eagles) is highly effective as a goose control method in Toronto, both near airfields and in enclosed environments such as hangars. Making use of the natural predator/prey relationship, falconry offers a completely non-lethal and environmentally friendly solution to geese near airports.
  
  
• Hazing with Dogs 
  Trained dogs chase geese without harming them. Especially in conjunction or as a follow-up method to falconry, dogs can have a great impact conveying an unstable and unsafe environment for geese. Having dogs regularly patrol the grounds is also a good idea.
  
  
• Pyrotechnics
  The use of pyrotechnics requires expert aim and timing; shots need to be fired during a 30-60 second window between take-offs and landings. Some airports actually require a bird control company to make available 10,000 rounds or more in their effort to displace geese.  Pyrotechnics are discharged from 40mm or 12 gauge shot guns in front of geese, so they can see a projectile coming at them. To be clear, the shots are not fired at the birds directly, but at the ground in front of them.
  
  
• Lasers
  Operating a laser at an airport is a delicate undertaking. It requires a highly skilled laser operator who is familiar with necessary limitations around aviation, and the permission of airport authorities.
  
  
• Remote Control Vehicles (ROVs)
  Remote control boats are used in larger bodies of water where dogs are ineffective.
  
  
• Habitat Modification
  Most modifications will be made to ponds and other water features. Methods from pond netting or pond wiring to planting shrubs or erecting low fences are designed to deter or prohibit geese from landing on water and seeking refuge from predators.
  
  
• Drones
  Geese can also be chased with drones - this happens on water, not on land. Again, geese seek bodies of water to escape from danger. Making surrounding lakes or ponds not safe, will drive the birds away.
  
  
• Nest Removal and Relocation
  If any nests are spotted on airport property, they, of course, need to be removed immediately. If geese are still plaguing daily operations by mid June - July, geese can be rounded up during the time they are rendered flightless (molting) and relocated.
  
  

Read more: Why Goose Control Is Crucial for Airport Safety in the GTA

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 25 April 2025

Back in 2024 one of Toronto's many trash pandas gained notoriety and a few raised eyebrows when he or she nonchalantly climbed on a TTC train. While TTC officials said that the fare-evading raccoon catching a subway ride caused no delays and was led to safety, this could have ended badly - for the animal as well as other passengers.

Toronto is known as the raccoon capital of the world for a reason. Estimates put the number of urban raccoons in Toronto at about 200,000. Food availability and few natural predators within city limits are contributing to the ever expanding raccoon population. And since raccoons are highly intelligent, naturally curious and resourceful, people rushing to and fro isn't going to deter them. Subway and transit stations offer shelter from the elements and overflowing trash bins with plenty of food.

Obviously, having wildlife ride the rails is a safety concern on so many levels and requires intervention by a licensed and experienced wildlife control company, such as Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control.

How Do Raccoons Enter Subway and GO Stations?

• Tunnel & Track Access
  Raccoons are able to use subway tunnels and drainage systems both to travel and seek cover;
  
  
• Vents & Utility Shafts
  Small openings offer hidden entry points and less human traffic;
  
  
• Garbage Disposal Areas 
  Food sources near platforms and stations attract raccoons and other wildlife;
  
  
• Emergency Exits & Maintenance Areas
  These also afford privacy and little disturbance. Additionally, maintenance rooms and GO Transit stations are often heated and that's definitely a bonus during Toronto's winter months. 
  
  

The Impact of Raccoon Infestations on Transit Operations

Operational Disruptions

• Equipment Concerns
  Potential damage to electrical wiring and equipment could not only interfere with the operation of transit, but also have catastrophic consequences and cost human life.
  
  
• Blocked Drains and Ventilation Systems
  The animals themselves, as well as their droppings or nesting materials may impact drainage and ventilation.
  
  
• Sensors or other Infrastructure
  Raccoons roaming the subway tunnels can easily trip sensors and cause confusion and havoc.

Safety Concerns

• Confrontations with Raccoons
  Particularly during spring and early summer, there is the potential for aggressive raccoon encounters with commuters or staff. Young mothers might be raising their young unbeknownst to passers-byes.
  
  
• Disease Transmission
  Of course, rabies is the biggest concern when it comes to raccoons but raccoon roundworm and other airborne parasitic infections are also a possibility.
  
  
• Accidents involving Humans
  Tripping hazards or slip and fall accidents due to droppings or debris are a danger as well.
  
  

Hygiene Issues

Unsanitary conditions can rage from foul smells to slippery wet feces on the ground and even mites and fleas if there is direct contact with a raccoon.

Why Relocating Raccoons Doesn’t Work for Transit Stations

In Ontario, if a captured raccoon (or other wildlife) is to be released, it needs to be within a 1km radius of the site it was caught at. This is to prevent excess distress to the animal as well as the spread of disease. While this is problematic even for homeowners, in the context of transit stations it is down right impossible to succeed.

• Homing Instinct
  Raccoons have a very strong homing instinct. Their home range is where they know how to navigate, where food and water can be found and where they don't have to compete for territory.
  
  
• Food Availability
  Why forage when there's a buffet laid out daily? One man's trash is another raccoon's next meal. Raccoons are clever and resourceful and take full advantage of what humans willingly or inadvertently offer. Careless trash disposal further adding to the raccoon problem in subway stations.
  
  
• Connecting Tunnels
  Returning to their familiar territory is aided by the interconnectedness of transit stations. Raccoons can easily slip in unobserved and travel away from prying eyes back to where they feel comfortable.
  
  
• Influx of Raccoons
  If or when a raccoon has been removed, its territory is now open to new applicants. With as many raccoons as Toronto has, space is precious and as soon as one territory is vacated, another raccoon or raccoon family will move in.
   

Read more: Dealing with Raccoons in Toronto’s Subway & GO Stations

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 24 April 2025

Vaughan home and business owners alike are plagued by recurring raccoon invasions. Highly intelligent, adaptable, and resourceful animals, raccoons are excellent at gaining access to buildings and attics. Join us as we explore the best ways to get rid of raccoons permanently and prevent subsequent raccoon infestations in Vaughan and beyond.

With raccoon mating season behind us and expectant moms looking for a safe place to birth and raise their offspring, right now is prime time for raccoon home invasions. And therefore, it is the busiest time for raccoon control and removal in Vaughan and surrounding communities. 

Why Are There So Many Raccoons in Vaughan?

Well, the problem is two-fold. On one hand, the urban raccoon has plenty of food, even if it does require rummaging through trash bins. On the other hand, because of constant human presence, natural predators like coyotes or wolves will keep their distance. That means that more raccoon litters survive and mature to mating and breeding age... and so on.

Limitations of Traditional Raccoon Removal

Understand that once a raccoon has gained access to your attic, it will return. There's no question about it. And if that raccoon is a mother with kits in your attic, she will move mountains to get back to her babies. So, you will be stuck in a never ending loop of trapping the animal, releasing it, and plugging up and reinforcing wherever she managed to get in. Wash and repeat.

Live Trapping & Relocation

Raccoon trapping and relocation is a popular (and often the only) service offered by virtually all wildlife removal companies. Let's inspect what that looks like:

• Release within a 1km Radius
  If a trapped raccoon is to be released, it must be within one km of the capture site. This is because dropping wildlife off far away from their home range would leave them disoriented, unable to secure food sources, competing for new territory, and just generally be in distress. It would also greatly increase the chance of disease spreading.
  
  
• Repeat Offenders
  A trapped and released raccoon will almost always return to where it was caught and to where it perceives 'home' to be. Often times, it will literally turn around and walk back. 
  
  
• Non-Professional Trapping
  Just about anyone can purchase a trap, bait and set it, catch themselves a raccoon, then drive down the road and release it. This is considered to be humane. But, is it? Remember, above we talked about how distressed the animal is? How it may have to physically fight for space and food in a place where other wildlife is already established? And what about offspring? Have all the babies been caught together with their mother? Because, if not, those babies are left to starve to death.
  
  

DIY Repellents & Deterrents:

Raccoons are highly intelligent, curious, and resourceful. It won't take more than a day for them to figure out that a motion sensor light poses no danger. The same goes for sprinklers. Raccoons are actually very fond of water and likely will see sprinklers as an added bonus.

In terms of smells, there are some scents they do not care for, but those won't keep them away for long, either. Unless, the scent indicates danger. Here's where it gets interesting: The scent of a male raccoon (urine) WILL make a mother raccoon pack up her babes and move the family to a new location. That's because male raccoons will kill kits in order to mate with the mother again. Momma raccoon has zero interest in any proposed shenanigans with a male while she's tending to her offspring.

Read more: How to Permanently Remove Raccoons in Vaughan

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 16 April 2025

One of Canada's most iconic and recognizable birds is the Canada Goose. Highly intelligent and adaptable, geese increasingly inhabit urban spaces, parks, and even school grounds. With that come some concerns for children's and staff's health and safety. Let's explore the struggles schools face to control geese, as well as goose control methods for Aurora's schools and playgrounds.

Why Are Geese Attracted to Schools and Playgrounds?

Risks of Geese in School Environments

Aggressive Behaviour Toward Students and Staff

• During nesting season (March to June), geese become extremely territorial and may chase, hiss, or even attack students and staff who unknowingly wander too close to their nests.
• Young children are especially vulnerable as they may not recognize the warning signs of an aggressive goose and/or don't know how to deescalate a confrontation.

Health Hazards 

• Goose Droppings
  Goose droppings are highly unsanitary and contain bacteria like E coli, Salmonella, and Cryptosporidium. They can and will contaminate surfaces and areas frequently used by children.
  
  
• Feathers
  Feathers can also carry a multitude of parasites and bacteria - and children adore collecting and playing with feathers.
  
  
• Increased Presence of Insects
  Geese (especially their droppings) attracts insects, further degrading the hygiene of school or playground surfaces and equipment.
  
  

Read more: Goose Control for Aurora’s Schools and Playgrounds

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 09 April 2025

Picture, if you will: A lazy summer afternoon in your tranquil Pickering backyard, the sound of laughter coming from kids running through the sprinkler and the promise of a delicious BBQ coming up in a little while - and then an angry Canada goose or worse, a pair of geese appear and crash your party. But why? Why are they here and why are they so miffed? Let's find out.

Pickering, like other communities nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, is home to a wide variety of wildlife - and an ever increasing number of Canada Geese. And, while you'd think that over 200 hectares of open space should suffice to accommodate the non-human residents, some of those residents actually choose to live in close proximity to human activity. In fact, there are some real advantages of living close to the 2-legged kind:

• Reduced Number of Natural Predators
  Human presence and activity greatly discourages predators such as coyotes from coming around and picking off geese;
  
  
• Higher Survival Rates of Goslings
  As a direct result of fewer predators, goslings stand a much better chance of surviving their first year of life and growing up to successfully mate and breed themselves;
  
  
• Availability of Food and Water
  Our tendencies to keep a beautiful yard with short cut grass and possibly even a little pond is the ideal environment for a thriving family of Canada geese.
  
  

Understanding the Goose Problem in Pickering

The rapidly growing goose population is becoming a problem in many places, not just Pickering. Accessibility of water, food, a mild climate, and the reduction of predators all contribute to this unexpected increase in geese.

The Canada Goose Breeding Cycle

• Geese can live up to 25 years in the wild and mate for life (bonded pairs) - breeding generally begins around age 3-4 and declines after 10 years of age;
   
• Geese breed in early spring in Ontario and lay a clutch of 4-8 eggs - although, as many as 11 eggs in one nest have been recorded;
  
  
• Both male and female fiercely protect their nest and later their offspring;
  
  
• Goslings hit the ground running and spend their first year of life with their parents - this includes the migratory journey south for the winter;
  
  
• Young females (age one year and up) will often stay with their parents and eventually find a mate in the location they hatched, while young males will go off to find or establish a new flock.
  
  

Increase in Flock Size

• Geese have an incredible sense of direction and memory - finding their way to southern winter homes and back home to "their" breeding ground;
  
  
• Increased clutch sizes and the increased gosling survival rates grows the flock exponentially each year.
  
  

The Dangers of Aggressive Geese

The Canada goose is an impressive bird, for so many reasons - including its size. A 20 lbs bird coming at you with strong wings and beak is no joke! Canada geese are territorial in general, but will become much more aggressive when they perceive danger to their offspring or themselves. It is likely that you or your pet accidentally wandered too close to their little family or family-to-be and have inadvertently become a threat. You opening an umbrella or your child flying a kite can also be interpreted as an act of aggression by a concerned goose parent.

Physical Injuries

Particularly children and pets are at risk of not only ending up too close to a goose, but also to more severe injuries.

• Bites
  Geese have strong bills and while a bite most often feels like a hard pinch, it's quite conceivable that it breaks the skin. Wash, sterilize, and bandage - watch for signs of infection;
  
  
• Bruising and Fractures
  Geese strike with the edge of their wings and can cause considerable damage, from surface bruising to muscle contusions or even bone fractures. Depending on the severity, you may need immediate medical attention;
  
  
• Injuries from Falls
  Many injuries that are reported following a goose attack are actually fall related. Be mindful of your surrounding and back away slowly.
  
  

Long-Term Prevention Strategies to Keep Geese Away

Landscape Modifications

• Since geese are attracted to very short grass, consider letting your grass grow to a length of 4 inches or more;
  
  
• Plant taller grasses or shrubs, thus eliminating the open view preferred by nesting geese;
  
  
• If possible, eliminate access to water. If you have a pond in your yard, you may consider installing a low fence around pond edges, pond wiring or pond netting to prevent geese from landing.
  
  

Community Involvement

• DO NOT FEED the geese. Or any other wildlife, for that matter. Although, there doesn't seem to be a by-law explicitly prohibiting the feeding of wildlife, the Durham Region does provide some recommendations on co-existing with wildlife here »
  
  
• Report aggressive geese to local authorities or the MNR
  
  

Read more: Prevent Aggressive Geese with Expert Goose Removal in Pickering

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 08 April 2025

Canada geese are a familiar sight in Toronto and the extended GTA area - in parks, on golf courses, and on ponds. And, especially once gosling have hatched, they are lovely to watch. But, the growing goose population does create problems, particularly in small bodies of water. This is where professional geese control for ponds comes into play. Let's explore how to get rid of geese in ponds:

Why Geese Gather in GTA Ponds

Our man-made landscapes are the perfect places to hang out and raise a family for geese. Here's why our ponds are so popular with geese:

• Short cut grass is their all-time favourite, offering unobstructed views for nesting and those lovely fresh green shoots;
  
  
• Availability of water - access to water is essential for waterfowl and all wildlife;
  
  
• The presence of humans ensures fewer natural predators.
  
  

The Health & Environmental Impact of Geese in Ponds

Health Concerns

Goose droppings harbour harmful bacteria and parasites that can have significant health implications for humans, dogs and other animals. Droppings can be more dangerous dried than fresh; once dried, they become airborne and less noticeable (or avoidable). Bacteria and parasites that can pose a threat if transmitted through contact or inhalation include:

• Histoplasmosis
  Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection as a result of inhaling spores from contaminated droppings. This infection targets the lungs;
  
  
• Giardiasis
  This parasitic infection caused by giardia leads to severe gastrointestinal symptoms;
  
  
• Cryptosporidiosis
  The Cryptosporidium parasite leads to an infection of the small intestine as well as the respiratory tract. Symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, and often an unexplained cough;
  
  
• Physical Injury
  Then there's the overly protective (read, aggressive) goose protecting her nest and eggs or his mate and offspring. During nesting season, geese are known to attack if they feel threatened by people or pets venturing too close to their nests.
  
  

Environmental Degradation

• Water Quality
  A handful of geese are enough to seriously affect water quality and contaminate a small pond in a matter of days, resulting in algae and reduced oxygen levels;
  
  
• Soil Erosion
  Overgrazing of shoreline vegetation causes root damage and soil erosion;
  
  
• Changes to Biodiversity
  The same overgrazing also leads to a decrease in biodiversity;
  
  
• Damage to Pond Ecosystem
  The increase of Phosphorus and Nitrogen as a result of goose droppings damages the delicate balance of a pond ecosystem and the aquatic environment and contributes to fish deaths. 
  
  

Read more: Effective Ways to Get Rid of Geese in GTA Ponds

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 05 April 2025

What with spring in the air and golfing season on the horizon, it's time we talked about geese on golf courses. What is intended to be a relaxing albeit challenging experience can quickly morph into the afternoon from hell. Just ask the Michigan young golfer who found himself at the mercy of a VERY angry Canada Goose and has the scars to prove it.

Why Do Geese Flock to Golf Courses?

You see, a golf course is like a little slice of heaven for just about every goose on the planet - or a big slice, if we're talking 18+ holes. And, it is thoughtfully constructed and maintained by humans, to boot. Here's what makes a golf course so irresistible to geese:

• Wide Open Grassy Areas
  This is the perfect scenario for geese; they prefer short cut grass with no obstructions and an open view to scan for potential predators.
  
  
• Abundant Water Sources
  Our desire to make it pretty and make our fellow golfers lose a ball or five in the drink has led to little ponds and water features all over the golf course - perfect for geese. Being waterfowl, they depend on water for survival - for nourishment as well as to provide an escape if predators are in pursuit.
  
  
• Lack of Natural Predators
  While they may have to dodge the occasional rogue golf ball, geese feel fairly safe in this well-maintained and open landscape. The constant presence of humans pretty much guarantees that natural predators like coyotes keep their distance.
  
  
• Minimal Human Threats
  Golfers are a generally amicable bunch and seldom bug the resident geese – and with hunting on golf courses very much  frowned upon, it's no wonder that geese think they're in a designated safe zone.
  
  

Problems Caused by Geese on Golf Courses

Many golfers actually don't mind geese all that much; especially when the little ones have hatched, they're entertaining and cute to watch. Managers and groundskeepers rarely share those sentiments. That's because they are faced with some or all of the following issues:

• Turf Damage
  Geese absolutely adore those tiny fresh green grass shoots that are best found and easiest picked when the grass is kept short and neat. This is what goslings devour in the early days and weeks of life almost exclusively, too. So grass regeneration is stunted if not made impossible all together and will eventually result in giant bald patches on the fairways.
  
  
• Excessive Goose Droppings 
  Well, what goes in, must come out... and much of that is smelly, slippery, and just unsanitary all around. And, as bad as it is fresh and wet, it's almost worse once it has dried; parasites, bacteria and all sorts of pathogens can now become airborne and cause serious health issues.
  
  
• Aggressive Behavior
  Geese can become territorial and attack golfers and staff. This is most likely to occur during nesting season. Particularly the male will fiercely protect his mate and their nest to any and all who inadvertently wander too close for (his) comfort. Mind you, Mother Goose won't stand for allowing intruders, either.
  
  
• Water Contamination
  Geese droppings can pollute ponds and water features, leading to algae and potentially harming other birds or wildlife.
  
  
• Noise Disruptions
  For those of us who take 3 minutes to set up our next shot, brows furrowed with deep concentration, loud honking can be utterly distracting and create a negative experience.
  
  

Golf Course-Specific Geese Control Methods

Obviously, the use of pyrotechnics is not an option on a golf course and even pond wiring or netting is not ideal in this setting. So that leaves us with methods such as:

Modifying the Course Layout to Deter Geese

• Reshape Shorelines
  Installing steep pond banks (at least 18 inches) can make it harder for geese to enter and exit the water.
  
  
• Strategic Vegetation Placement
  Planting tall native grasses and shrubs along fairways and water edges helps obstruct the view and makes landing spots appear less appealing.
  
  
• Rock or Riprap Barriers
  This entails placing large rocks along pond edges and is another way to discourage geese from nesting. It may also prove to be a successful geese relief method for golf courses.
  
  

Read more: How Groundskeepers Can Get Rid of Geese from Golf Courses

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 04 April 2025

Dealing with raccoons in multi-unit buildings is a whole different animal (pun intended). Pinpointing where the animal(s) gained access to the building or where they are hiding out is much more challenging. And of course, because there are many interconnected spaces, raccoons can be on the move and evade capture. Join us as we explore how to deal with a raccoon infestation in an apartment complex situation.

What are the Concerns with Raccoon Infestations in Apartment Buildings?

• Entry Points
  Where a single-family home has limited vulnerabilities, an apartment complex can have many. Finding all of them and ensuring they are secured can be difficult and time consuming.
  
  
• Cost
  Because there may be a slew of areas where raccoons can gain access to a building, the costs associated with preventing raccoons from entering apartment buildings or repairs can be substantial.
  
  
• Health Concerns
  There are always health concerns when wildlife interacts with humans or their pets. In a building with multiple tenants, families, and pets, those concerns are multiplied.
  
  
• Liability
  The owners or managers of a residential complex will want to nip any raccoon activity in the bud as soon as possible to avoid liability for tenant or building property damages.
  
  

Why Are Raccoons Attracted to Apartment Buildings?

Signs of a Raccoon Infestation in Multi-Unit Properties

• Noises
  Scratching and scurrying noises in walls, ceilings, or attics. Raccoons are also very vocal, so screeches, chatter or whistles are often heard.
  
  
• Strong Odours from Urine and Droppings
  A musky or pungent smell (think cat litter box) is often an indicator of raccoon activity.
  
  
• Trash Bins or Dumpsters
  Trash bags may be ripped open, removed from container and garbage is strewn about.
  
  
• Raccoon Sightings
  You'll most often lay eyes on raccoons on balconies, ground floor patios, near the garbage disposal, or by entrances and stairwells.
  
  
• Disturbances at Night
  Raccoons, being the nocturnal little rascals they are, may make a fine racket while getting into your garbage and other mischief.
  
  

Read more: How to Deal with a Raccoon Infestation in a Multi-Unit Building or Apartment Complex