CA
US
Call 
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.
What are the Best Goose Control & Removal Methods for Harbourfront Properties?
Birds of Prey (Eagles)
- Eagles soaring above a nesting location are the most natural and effective deterrents, taking advantage of the natural predator/prey relationship.
- A predator in the air signals to geese that the area below is neither safe nor appropriate for raising a family.
- Falconry is a silent, humane, and non-disruptive goose control method — ideal for parks, rooftops, and open lawns.
- The geeses will leave of their own volition due to the environment created by the birds of prey.
- A commercial falconry license and federal permits are required, so a professional goose removal service is a must.
- Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control is licensed and equipped to use falconry for goose control.
Trained Working Dogs
- Trained dogs are most effective when used in conjunction with birds of prey and other goose control methods.
- Dogs patrol properties and further reinforce that the area is unsafe and unpredictable.
- Dogs that can haze geese are especially useful for docks, green roofs, and condo terraces.
- Frequent dog patrols on land or in small bodies of water can create long-term conditioning without harm to the birds.
Habitat Modification
- Minor changes in landscaping such as longer grass, low shrub barriers, and other visual obstructions make the area less attractive to geese.
- Habitat modifications are a fairly inexpensive way to deter geese and especially useful for condo lawns, open park zones, and waterfront edges.
- Habitat modifications do not require any permits.
Goose Nest Removal
- Early spring and before nesting begins is the best time to remove goose nests and interrupt the breeding cycle.
- Legal compliance is essential when removing geese nests - and Hawkeye is qualified, experienced, and fully licensed.
Pond & Dock Goose Control
- Techniques like pond wiring, pond netting, or low-profile fencing in smaller bodies of water or near docks can stop geese from landing or resting in key zones.
- These methods are visually unobtrusive and safe for people.
When to Call in Professionals for Goose Removal
- Virtually all goose control methods require federal permits - wildlife professionals will help you obtain the necessary permits.
- Most people don't have access to trained birds of prey or dogs - experienced professionals like Hawkeye do.
- As with pretty much all bird control efforts, goose removal usually requires employing more than one method over a period of time to ensure long-term success.
- What Professionals Offer: A professional bird control company such as Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control offers expertise, specialized equipment, knowledge of regulations, and permit acquisition.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Federal, Provincial, and Municipal Regulations: All methods of goose control and/or removal are subject to permits and laws protecting migratory birds.
- Permitting Requirements: Certain actions may require additional permits from Environment and Climate Change Canada.
- Humane Treatment: It is our ethical responsibility to use humane, non-lethal methods whenever possible.
Own or Manage Property Along Toronto’s Harbourfront?
Contact Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control to learn how to get rid of geese and prevent nest-related problems legally and effectively. A proper goose management plan and our multi-faceted approach ensure long-term success while respecting federal and provincial laws. Call us today and let's get started on next year's geese removal plan tailored to your needs and location.
