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Hopefully, you enjoyed our 2-part series "Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards" - if you've missed it, check out Part I and Part II now.
Below, we've summed up the most popular questions we receive in regards to geese and cemeteries. Call Hawkeye for a professional assessment and long-term geese management plan.
FAQs About Goose Removal from Cemeteries
Q: How do professionals remove geese from graveyards?
A: When cemetery operators ask how to remove Canada geese from graveyards, the answer usually involves a combination of falconry, trained goose control dogs, habitat modification, and in some cases seasonal relocation programs.
Q: When should GTA cemeteries start goose control?
A: Any goose control measures require planning, permits, and experience. Ideally, a goose management plan is devised and permits are obtained before geese arrive in Ontario. That said, it's never too late to engage a goose control expert and start working on a schedule.. Keep in mind that all efforts other than habitat modification require prior permits.
Q: How do you prevent geese around cemetery ponds?
A: The first and probably easiest step is some habitat modification. You can make the pond less attractive by planting shrubs or installing boulders near the waterline. A more involved approach would be pond netting. This will impede on getting into and out of the water. You can then move on to ROVs to make the water itself unpredictable.
Q: We tried "Away with Geese" (Goose Lights) lights and they didn't work. Why?
A: Geese are highly intelligent birds and quickly learn to ignore devices, sounds, or lights that do not pose actual danger. Without either physically preventing access (like pond wiring) or real predator intervention, geese will remain on the grounds.
Q: What should cemetery staff do if geese attack visitors?
A: Ideally, staff would have been trained in observing and recognizing the early signs of goose aggression. Early warning signs include lowering of the head, a neck stretched out forward, honking or hissing, wing flapping, and "head bopping" - that's movement of the head up and down. At this stage, remain calm and avoid sudden movements that could be interpreted as aggression on your part. Maintain eye contact and slowly back away - do not turn your back to the goose and do not run. Keep your movements slow, steady, and controlled. You signaling retreat may end the confrontation. Learn more here »
Q: Is falconry appropriate for memorial parks?
A: Yes, falconry is very appropriate for memorial parks and cemeteries. It is unobtrusive, humane, and very effective. Given its significance in may cultures, visitors may even enjoy or feel comforted by seeing an eagle overhead.
Q: Will Falconry or dogs disturb people visiting graves?
A: Falconry will not disturb visitors; in fact, the eagle is held in high esteem by many cultures and may be seen as a comfort at gravesites. On the other hand, dog patrols can be scheduled during times where visitors are less likely to frequent the grounds.
Q: Can we use chemical goose repellents on the grass to save money?
A: Chemical repellents rarely work in an outdoor environment at all (imagine having to reapply after every rainfall) and may be detrimental to other animal species.
Q: Can we just wait for the geese to migrate in the winter?
A: Yes, of course that's an option for the current year. The problem is that the same geese will return the following spring. The only long-term solution is to break the breeding/nesting cycle at your location.
Q: If we relocate the flock, will they just come back next year?
A: Choosing a location for the flock of geese to relocate to requires great care and knowledge of their migration route. The relocation spot needs to be south-west of your property and a minimum of 100 km away. If done right, the chance of return to the original nesting site can be as low as 10%. Having a goose control expert like Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control working with you is crucial.
Q: Can we relocate geese to a local farm or pond nearby?
A: No, you absolutely cannot. The new site must be a minimum of 100km south west of your location and pre-approved by the Canadian Wildlife Service. Learn more here »
Q: What happens to the goslings during a large-scale geese relocation?
A: Goslings travel with their parents for their first year of life. They will move to the relocation site and then migrate south for the winter alongside their parents. Female yearlings often remain with the flock while young male geese will go off to find or establish their own flock.
Hawkeye's Goose Control for Cemeteries
To preserve the peaceful nature of a cemetery or memorial part in the GTA, Hawkeye's goose control methods include non-intrusive, predator-based, multi-layer approach including our falconry program. Allow us to demonstrate our 35+ years of experience and a deep love for birds of prey. Contact Hawkeye today for an assessment and comprehensive geese management plan for years to come.
Related Articles:
Part I: Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards
Part II: Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards
https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/which-is-the-best-bird-of-prey-for-goose-control-2
https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2011/ec/CW66-293-4-2011-eng.pdf
https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-the-rise-in-goslings-increases-goose-infestations-across-vaughan
