Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 27 May 2025

Our garages often house more than vehicles and garden supplies, including anything from pet food to kid's toys - and sometimes, wildlife. Finding a single raccoon or a raccoon family dwelling in your detached garage can come as quite a surprise. Learn what you can do to evict the little critters and prevent them from coming back.

Recent calls to Scarborough homes (or more precisely, detached garages) seem to indicate a growing issue in the area. We all know that attics are a favourite hangout for raccoons (particularly over the winter and when litters of kits are born in the spring) but it looks as if detached garages are gaining popularity as well. And rightfully so - after all, they usually provide ample hiding spots and don't see a whole lot of traffic for most of the day or night. Let's look at what attracts wildlife to garages, what problems are associated with raccoons and how to get rid of raccoons from your garage.

Why is a Detached Garage a Raccoon's Ideal Den?

• Shelter and Security
  Detached garages can offer protection from the elements as well as predators and usually see minimal human activity;
  
  
• Seclusion and Privacy
  The fact that garages are generally low traffic areas (particularly during the colder months) surely adds to creating ideal conditions for nesting and raising young;
  
  
• Easy Access Points
  Aside from gaps in wood siding, roofline holes, rotted eaves, or lifted shingles, there are more often than not unsecured doors;
  
  
• Less Human Disturbance
  Again, detached garages often aren’t used daily, allowing raccoons to settle in undetected;
  
  
• Available Nesting Materials
  Old boxes, insulation, fabric, or stored goods offer comfort and denning materials.
  
  

The Rise of Raccoons Denning in Garages

With raccoon populations exploding, more and more urban structures such as garages and other outbuildings double as raccoon dens.

• Urbanization & Habitat Loss
  Continuous urban development keeps pushing raccoons into suburbs and even inner cities;
  
  
• Food Access Nearby
  Usually next to garages, garbage bins and composters can be found. Pet food is often stored in the garage;
  
  
• Lack of Natural Predators
  With the comings and goings of humans, natural raccoon predators such as coyotes tend to keep their distance;
  
  
• “Artificial Cave” Analogy
  Detached garages and/or equipment stored within can mimic safe, enclosed dens;
   
• Seasonal Timing
  Spring (birthing season) and fall (shelter before winter) see spikes in wildlife infestations and raccoons living in garages.
  
  

What Happens Once Raccoons Enter Garages?

Why do Detached Garages Make the Problem Worse Over Time?

1. Detached garages are often older buildings and more vulnerable as they tend to be less maintained and located closer to laneways, alleys, and ravines - all natural travel corridors for raccoons.
   
   
2. Long term degradation such as defects or cracks in brickwork, decaying wood planks or panels, and weakened eaves give raccoons more and easier access points over time. These type of buildings require scheduled inspections and maintenance to minimize entry, though realistically, you'll likely not be able to seal off every nook and cranny to keep raccoons from pitching a tent in your garage.
   
   
3. Raccoons are intelligent and adapt quickly; once one raccoon successfully dens in a detached garage, others in the area may follow suit, turning it into a habitual denning spot.
   
   

Read more: Raccoons in Scarborough’s Detached Garages

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 26 May 2025

Yep, that's probably not what you'd expect to hear on your evening news - but there have actually been several incidents of raccoons stuck in storm or sewage drains. Some made the news and involved hours of rescue work by concerned citizens, police, and animal control. One of these occurred in Heritage Park, Holyoke, MA: The grate was eventually removed and the unfortunate animal was freed using laundry detergent.

Why Storm Drains Attract Raccoons

Below-ground tunnels can offer a host of advantages for wildlife roaming around our cities. Let's examine in more detail:

• Shelter and Refuge
  Storm drains offer protection and escape from Toronto's hot and humid summers as well as harsh, cold winters.
  
  
• Safety from Predators
  While humans are the most prevalent threat to raccoons in the inner cities, there are still other natural predators around. Especially in recent years, the coyote population in urban areas has increased significantly.
  
  
• Urban Food Sources
  Storm drains are often used by raccoons to travel undetected - raid a trash can and bring the loot back to the drain. The presence of water is an added bonus as raccoons prefer to 'wash' their food before consumption.
  
  
• Underground Highways
  Drainage systems allow raccoons to navigate the GTA's urban landscape safely and undetected, avoiding traffic and human interaction.
  
  

Identifying Raccoon Activity in GTA Storm Drains

So, if raccoons hang out in storm drains... how do you know? Are there signs?

• Raccoon Sightings
  Particularly after dusk and before dawn you may see a raccoon (and hopefully not stuck in a grate) entering or exiting drain openings in GTA neighbourhoods.
  
  
• Unusual Noises
  Raccoons have never been accused of being dainty or quiet; you may notice scratching, rustling, or any of the many vocalizations raccoons use to communicate with each other.
  
  
• Droppings around Drains
  Raccoon feces may be present near drain entrances or in areas where drains overflow.
  
  
• Strong Odours
  A strong, musky, or ammonia-like smell may be emanating from drain openings.
  
  
• Debris Build-Up
  Pay close attention to unusual accumulations of leaves, twig, or other nesting materials around drain inlets.
  
  

The Real Risks of Raccoons in GTA Drainage Systems

Aside from the obvious issue of a terrified critter being stuck and unable to free itself from the grip of a steel grate, there are other ramifications of raccoons in drainage systems.

• Drain Blockages & Flooding
  Accumulation of leaves, debris, and raccoon nesting materials can impede water flow, exacerbating flooding issues common in parts of the GTA during heavy rainfall.
  
  
• Infrastructure Damage
  Raccoons can damage pipes and compromise the structural integrity of the drainage infrastructure.
  
  
• Health Hazards for GTA Residents
  Raccoon feces in drains can contaminate runoff, posing risks to pets and potentially humans. Raccoons themselves carry diseases such as rabies.
  
  
• Difficult and Dangerous Removal
  Attempting DIY removal from confined drain spaces is risky for both homeowners and animals. Raccoon removal from storm drains should be left to professionals and while observing proper safety protocols.
  
  
• Potential for Unexpected Encounters
  Raccoons emerging from drains in residential areas, parks, or even busy downtown Toronto can lead to startling and potentially dangerous situations for pedestrians or cyclists.
  
  

Traditional Raccoon Removal Doesn't Work for Storm Drains

• Underground Complexity
  Drainage systems are often connected to multiple access points (storm grates, culverts, utility tunnels), making it nearly impossible to block off all escape routes.
  
  
• Raccoons Re-Enter easily
  Even if removed and relocated (legally within 1 km), raccoons often return through unsealed or adjacent drain points.
  
  
• DIY Hazards
  Attempting to seal or flush storm drains can lead to flooding during rainfall, trapped animals dying and causing severe odour or contamination, and/or legal issues from interfering with municipal infrastructure.
  
  
• Access and Safety Issues
  Confined spaces, low visibility, and water hazards make getting rid of raccoons from storm drains too dangerous and ineffective for DYI and require professional animal removal services.
  
  

Hawkeye’s Permanent Raccoon Removal for Storm Drainage

Because blocking off entry points is not an option here, raccoon removal really is the only solution. Raccoon removal generally means live trapping the animal(s) and then releasing them within a one kilometre radius from the capture site. It is almost inevitable that the raccoon(s) will return. Realistically, dropping the animal 1km away will likely still be in the vicinity of the same tunnel system they were caught at.

Contrary to all other Ontario wildlife removal companies, Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control can offer permanent raccoon control and removal in Toronto and the GTA. Raccoons are trapped or physically captured legally and humanely euthanized. This is the same procedure used by animal shelters and in accordance with veterinary guidelines.

Read more: How to Get Rid of Raccoons in GTA Storm Drainage Systems

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 22 May 2025

Our beloved Canada geese are intelligent birds with excellent memory and a strong homing instinct. Hence, they return to the same breeding and nesting grounds year after year. Females will often stay with the flock and breed where they themselves hatched. With those nesting grounds often being in fairly populated areas, fewer natural predators and ample food ensure high survival rates of goslings and yearlings - and the flock grows. And grows.

The geese population in many urban areas will continue to explode if left unchecked. What is needed here is early intervention - ideally, before breeding and nesting begins. That means that very early spring is when we need to take measures to disrupt the breeding cycle and encourage geese to leave.

Canada Goose Nesting Behaviour

Our fine feathered friends arrive often as early as March, back from their sunny winter home down south. The sole reason for their lengthy and strenuous migration is to breed in northern climates. The ideal nesting site for a flock of Canada geese includes:

• Proximity and access to water;
  
  
• Open grassy areas with little or no obstructed views;
  
  
• Access to food other than fresh grass shoots.
  

Understanding and taking into consideration when, how, and where geese will settle to breed and nest is imperative when implementing goose control measures.

Why Do Geese Return to the Same Spot Every Year?

• Geese Imprint on Successful Nesting Sites
  After having a successful breeding season, geese are almost guaranteed to return to the same site. After all, it worked out well and now the goslings hatched at this site, call it home as well.
  
  
• They have strong Memory and Site Fidelity 
  Again, after a successful nesting season, this site is now the starting point (and return destination) of their migratory route.
  
  
• Site Suitability
  As long as there is plenty of food and other conditions favour successful breeding, there is no reason to change course and look for different nesting grounds.
  
  

Why Egg Oiling/Addling Doesn’t Break the Cycle

We often see egg addling or oiling advertised and hailed as a solution - when it really isn't. 

• Geese don’t know the eggs are no longer viable and keep sitting on them.
  
  
• You will still have to deal with them for the entire season until fall migration begins.
  
  
• It would likely take several unsuccessful breeding seasons before geese gave up and moved on.
  
  
• Egg oiling or addling prolongs the problem and delays the solution. It does not produce the desired outcome: make the flock of geese leave on their own.
  
  

Early Intervention — Disrupting Pre-Nesting Activity

• Timing is Critical
  Geese that stay in our northern climates and do not migrate south may begin scouting nesting locations in late winter to early spring. Geese that are migrating north already have the nesting location engrained in their memory. Either way, the time for action is early March.
  
  
• Visual Signs to Watch for
  Pairs of geese walking your property, inspecting quiet corners, especially near water.
  
  

Strategies to Stop Geese before Nesting begins

• Falconry for Geese Control
  Flying large birds of prey (eagles) overhead will make the area appear unsafe and unsuitable for nesting;
  
  
• Hazing with Dogs
  Having dogs patrol and chase geese on the ground will reinforce that the area is not desirable for breeding and nesting;
  
  
• Lasers
  Expertly deployed lasers in low light conditions will also reiterate that the area is unpredictable and unsafe;
  
  
• Habitat Modification
  Letting grass grow 4 inches or taller, planting shrubs or otherwise obstructing the view will make the location less desirable and dicourage geese from nesting;
  
  
• Fencing or Pond Wiring
  Low fences along the shore line will make landing and taking flight more difficult and wiring or netting across ponds will also prevent geese from seeking refuge in the water.
  
  

Note: All goose control measures require appropriate permits. Contact Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control for more information and assistance in obtaining permits.

Read more: How to Break the Goose Nesting Cycle and Stop Them from Returning

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 16 May 2025

Raccoons are a year-round nuisance in Brampton's residential and commercial areas. Often, they are more than just a nuisance and responsible for considerable damage to homes, yards, and commercial spaces. Let's explore when is the best time for raccoon removal in Brampton.

While there is an ideal time for raccoon removal, the method and legality may matter just as much. Other GTA wildlife companies are limited to offering temporary solutions, such as live trapping and releasing the animal within a one kilometre radius of the capture site. Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control is the only company offering permanent raccoon removal in Brampton. Learn more about when to act and why Hawkeye's permanent removal is the only true long term solution

Raccoon Activity in Brampton Throughout the Year

Spring

Early spring is the time when raccoon removal is most advantageous. Raccoons breed in very early spring and birth litters of 4 kits (average) later in the spring and early summer. Ideally, we remove the animals before they reproduce and interrupt the breeding cycle. Because raccoons are so adept at living alongside humans in urban areas and deal with fewer natural predators in urban settings, most raccoon babies survive their first year of life. In comparison, the mortality rate in the wild routinely reaches up to 50%. Spring is also the time when a pregnant female will move mountains to get into a warm and cozy attic or similar space to prepare her birthing den.

Summer

Summer sees momma raccoon raising her offspring and slowly introducing them to the outside world. Once kits are born, removal becomes much more problematic. Both, the location may be an issue and/or difficult to access and mother and little ones will have to be moved together to ensure survival of the kits. 

Fall

During the fall, a mother and her offspring will likely be looking for a safe and warm refuge with winter looming on the horizon. Young raccoons often stay with their mother throughout the first winter. More bodies means more heat and higher chances of survival for all. During this time, spring and fall are both primary seasons for raccoons breaking into Brampton attics or outbuildings.

Winter

If we haven't been able to stop a raccoon family from moving in before now, they'll be well settled in and prepared to stay for the long haul. Again, your attic is probably the place most favoured.

Best Times for Permanent Raccoon Removal in Brampton

The absolute best time for permanent raccoon removal in Brampton is at the very end of winter or very early spring – once raccoons are frolicking out ‘n about, looking for a mating partner, and BEFORE kits are born. The fewer animals that need to be removed, the better. And the absolute last thing we’ll want to happen is to remove mum and leave one or more of her babies behind.

Newborn raccoons are completely dependent on their mother. They are born blind and hairless; they have zero chance of survival if separated from their mum.

Why the "Best Time" for Hawkeye's Raccoon Removal Is Always Now

Addressing Immediate Problems:

If you should discover or even just suspect a raccoon in your home or business, it’s time to act.

• Minimize structural damage by intervening immediately;
  
  
• Minimize health risks to you, your family, pets, employees, etc.
  
  

Preventing Future Issues:

The standard practice of catch and release almost ALWAYS leads to recurring raccoon infestation and costs.

• By permanently removing all raccoons on site, you can rest assured that these same animals will not return.
  
  
• By cutting off the breeding cycle, overall raccoon populations can be better managed and brought back to reasonable levels.
  
  

Humane and Effective Solution:

All living creatures ought to be treated with respect and compassion. Hawkeye’s permanent raccoon removal allows for a pain- and stress-free solution for the animal(s).

• Raccoons are caught in live traps providing food, water, and shelter;
  
  
• Captured animals are then humanely euthanized without causing undue distress or discomfort;
  
  
• In contrast, animals relocated often find themselves disoriented and confused, desperately seeking to return to familiar territory – and ultimately start the cycle all over again.
  
  

Read more: The Best Time of Year for Raccoon Removal in Brampton

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 15 May 2025

Ahhh.. summer is on the horizon and with the warmer weather we all look forward to activities near or on the water. Unfortunately, so do our beloved Canada geese.

Of course, being waterfowl, they love and in fact need water. And, here in Ontario, we have plenty of lakes (large and small), beaches, marinas, and parks offering water features.

In fact, Toronto and its nearby cottage regions have over 250,000 lakes!

Let’s have a look at what we can do to get rid of geese from our docks and marinas this summer:

What’s The Issue with Geese on Docks?

• Geese are loud, messy, and often times aggressive. Probably not what we look for in our summer retreat with the kids.
• Goose droppings (especially excessive amounts) also pose some fairly significant issues related to health, water quality, and slip-and-fall accidents.

Goose control and management efforts are necessary to help protect you and your family, marina and park employees, and the public at large. Please note that ALL goose removal efforts require planning and permits. Read on and learn what keeps geese off docks and which geese control methods yield the best long-term results.

Why Geese Flock to Docks

• Open, flat sightlines offer visibility and safety
  Geese are most comfortable on even ground with little or no obstructions – this enables them to spot predators early and retreat to the water for safety.
  
  
• Easy access to water
  Water is not only necessary for hydration, but also provides a safe haven for geese.
  
  
• Lack of natural predators in urban and cottage settings
  Even though the overall setting may be rural in cottage country, the constant presence of humans and their shenanigans pretty much assures that predators keep their distance.
  
  
• Human feeding and lack of deterrence reinforce their presence
  The absolute worst thing we can do is feed geese. Yes, the goslings are adorable and will come close and we may even get to pet them. But we are creating the very problem that we’ll later lament and want solved.
  
  

Cottage Waterfronts & Private Docks

Goose Control Challenges:

• Docks are often unmonitored and void of human activity for long stretches;
• Owners want minimal disruption and no damage to natural surroundings.

Most Effective Solutions:

• Birds of Prey
  After the initial 10-12 days of flying birds of prey, twice weekly falconry visits are highly effective. Falconry for Geese Control requires an experienced falconer and large birds of prey (like eagles).
  
  
• Habitat Modification
  Growing grass along the shoreline taller will help and also adding low fences or shrubs around water access points will discourage geese. This is something cottage owners can do on their own.
  
  
• Laser Deterrents
  Lasers are quiet and minimally invasive; they work best in low light (early morning/after sunset) and make the environment appear unpredictable and potentially unsafe for geese to nest. This requires handling by a professional.
  
  
• Pyrotechnics
  The drawback, of course, is the noise disturbance. But pyrotechnics are highly effective geese deterrents for docks if also deployed in low light conditions (similar to lasers). This requires a licensed and experienced operator.
  
  
• Nest Removal (Not Addling/Oiling)
  Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control does not necessarily endorse egg oiling. It doesn’t solve the problem at hand because the geese don’t realize that their eggs are no longer viable. They will continue to sit on their nests and remain a constant presence throughout the summer months. Egg addling or oiling also needs to be handled by professionals.
  
  

Read more: How to Get Rid of Geese from Your Dock

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 12 May 2025

The Greater Toronto Area has seen a marked increase in coyotes over recent years. Their growing presence and a number of attacks have sparked great concern in GTA residents and city officials.

The Toronto area has many greens spaces, woodlots, parks, an extensive network of rivers, streams, ravines, as well as numerous underground waterways and tunnels that offer safe passage and living space to wildlife and allows animals to roam much of the cityscape without being exposed.

How Did We Get to Coyotes Posing a Danger to Toronto Residents and Pets?

Conclusion

Coyotes that typically shied away from people have now come to associate people with being fed. Spaces once avoided by wildlife, have now become coyote territory.

First Steps to solving the Coyote Problem

Public education and awareness are key. There are several websites where more information can be found.

Why Hazing is Not the Solution

Hazing measures ultimately fail as the coyotes have learned not to fear humans and are becoming increasingly aggressive during encounters.

1. Coyotes will quickly learn that hazing does not pose a real threat.
   
   
2. The objective is food (you and/or your pet) and you cannot ‘teach’ a coyote to step away from food.

Imagine a new dog in your home: how many times do you need to correct unwanted behaviour before the dog learns and the behavior changes? Teaching a coyote (or any wild animal) to leave food or take away its meal without a violent reaction is an impossible task.

Read more: Catching Coyote in the General Toronto Area

Written by: Dan Frankian

Published: 09 May 2025

How Much does Raccoon Removal Cost in Toronto?

The short answer is: it depends. It depends on how many animals have settled in your Toronto home or on your property, where they are located (and how easy or difficult the location can be accessed), how long it takes to trap them, how many times a wildlife technician has to come to service the trap, and how much damage needs to be repaired. Let's explore in more detail:

If you are a resident of Toronto, you are likely very familiar with raccoons - after all, Toronto has been dubbed the Raccoon Capital  of the world. You've probably already dealt with dumped over trash bins and strewn garbage in the yard, suspicious noises coming from your attic, or you've seen raccoon tracks in your backyard. 

Aside from the general nuisance and unsanitary conditions often left behind by raccoons, there is also the lingering threat of rabies for both humans and pets to consider. Having raccoons around your property is just not a good idea and can become very costly if not addressed in a timely manner. Yes, there is cost associated with removing the animals but ignoring a raccoon infestation to the point of structural damage to your home will be much, MUCH more expensive.

This article will break down the various factors influencing raccoon removal prices in the GTA and explain why Hawkeye's permanent removal services offer the most effective and long-term solution.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Raccoon Removal in Toronto

Raccoon removal in Toronto consists of traps being set and baited, animals caught and removed, and follow-up repairs and exclusion efforts to prevent further raccoon infestations. It is important to factor in repairs to the damages caused by raccoons - this can be as detrimental as damaged wiring or collapsed ceilings. Pricing for raccoon removal in Toronto depends on: 

• Number of traps;
• Size of the property (residential or commercial);
• Number of visits by technicians;
• Exclusion efforts.

Severity of the Infestation

The number of animals seen or suspected will influence the decision of how many traps will be set and monitored. Generally, you'll want to set out at least two traps and increase that number based on the raccoon activity detected. 

Location of the Raccoon(s)

Trapping cost can increase depending on where the raccoon activity is and how easy or difficult that location is to reach. Special infrared or thermal imaging equipment may be needed to locate the animals in walls or other inaccessible spaces.

Number of Visits Required 

Every visit by a Toronto area wildlife technician will increase the cost of raccoon removal. 

• There will be the initial home inspection - this is where the animal(s) will be located and a plan for number of traps and their location will be hatched;
• The home owner can call technicians to the property for a number of reasons - this can include moving the trap to a different location, rebaiting, or switching to a different trap design if the initial one does not yield the desired results;
• Collection of animals and traps;
• Closing up entry points to prevent further access by raccoons or other wildlife;
• Follow-up visits when the animals return. 

Read more: How Much Does Raccoon Removal Cost in Toronto?

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