How to Get Rid of Geese from Vaughan’s Stormwater Ponds

The city of Vaughan, like many other municipalities in the GTA, is seeing rapid and ongoing development and this means an increase in stormwater retention ponds in residential and commercial zones. Stormwater ponds attract Canada geese and other wildlife.

Why do Geese Flock to Vaughan’s Stormwater Ponds?

Stormwater ponds typically offer or are found near natural and man-made foods. Canada geese are adaptable and have learned to thrive alongside humans. Stormwater ponds afford geese the following benefits:

• Calm, open water and nearby grass;
• Fewer predators due to human traffic;
• Usually close to human housing developments and plenty of food sources;
  
  

Where are Stormwater Ponds Typically Found?

Common locations for stormwater ponds include:

• New subdivisions;
• Public parks;
• Industrial or retail landscapes;
• School zones with adjacent ponds;
  
  

Problems Caused by Geese in and Around Stormwater Ponds

• Heavy droppings on sidewalks, lawns, and nearby patios;;
• Aggression toward people and pets, especially during nesting season;
• Damage to turf and landscaped areas;
• Safety and sanitation risks near playgrounds, schools, or parks;
• Clogged drains or water flow disruptions from nesting materials;
• Long-term maintenance issues for HOAs and municipalities.
  
  

What You Can and Can’t Do About Geese in Stormwater Ponds

• The Migratory Birds Convention Act
  Canada geese and their nests are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. It is illegal to harm, move, or disturb nests and eggs without proper permits. In fact, ALL methods of goose control in Vaughan and other municipalities are subject to permits.
  
  
• Hire a Goose Control Professional
  A professional wildlife control company such as Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control can assist you with obtaining the necessary permits and offer trusted geese removal services for stormwater ponds, including custom solutions in Vaughan. 
  
  
• Landscape Modification
  Changing the landscape to make it less appealing for geese to nest and raise a family is something you CAN do on your own to deter geese from ponds and you can do so without permit. For example, you can let grass grow to be 4 inches or longer or plant small shrubs around pond edges.
  
  

Strategies to Get Rid of Geese from Stormwater Ponds

Birds of Prey (Eagles)

• Falconry for goose control uses trained eagles flown by expert falconers;
• Geese instinctively fear birds of prey as they are natural predators and flee immediately;
• Birds of prey are especially effective over open stormwater pond areas with low vegetation and clear sightlines;
• Multiple flyovers condition geese to recognize the area as unsafe and permanently avoid the site;
• Falconry is safe, humane, and highly effective across residential, commercial, and municipal pond zones.
  
  

Trained Dogs

• Professionally trained dogs can be brought in to chase geese without physically harming them;
• Geese interpret dogs as natural predators and learn to avoid the area;
• Dog patrols are ideal for ponds near schools, parks, or subdivisions where falconry may be logistically limited;
• Works best with consistent patrols over several days or weeks.
  
  

Pond Wiring

• Pond wiring involves installing low wires or netting grids across smaller stormwater ponds;
• The obstruction makes it physically difficult for geese to land or take off from the water's surface;
• Wiring or netting is non-invasive and nearly invisible from a distance;
• Pond wiring can be especially helpful for long-term control at private and community ponds.
  
  

Habitat Modification

• Geese prefer open, flat spaces with short grass and a full view of approaching predators;
• Strategies include:
  • Allowing grass to grow taller around pond edges;
  • Planting dense shrubs or low fencing around key access points;
  • Creating visual obstructions near entry paths;
• Makes the area less attractive for nesting;
• Often used alongside falconry or dogs for better and lasting results.
  
  

Remote-Controlled Vehicles (ROVs)

• Remote-controlled boats are used by trained professionals to create movement and unpredictability in the water;
• ROVs are used primarily at night when geese are on high alert and more vulnerable;
• Pyrotechnics (e.g., screamers or bangers) simulate danger and startle birds;
• These tools are useful for short bursts of activity but typically require reinforcement with falconry or dogs.
  
  

Pyrotechnics and Laser Devices (Night or Low-Light Deterrence)

• Both pyrotechnics and lasers are also deployed in low light conditions and require experienced operators;
• Green lasers are pointed in front of geese in zig zag patterns to create the illusion of movement or predator-like presence;
  
  

Best Practice: Combine Goose Control Methods for Success

• When it comes to goose control and removal, no single solution is 100% effective on its own;
• Falconry in combination with one or more other measures yields the best results;
• Starting early in the season (before nesting) delivers the best results.
  
  

What NOT to Do for Geese at Stormwater Ponds

• Don’t feed the geese — it increases site fidelity and nesting;
• Don’t move nests or eggs on your own — it is illegal without a permit;
• Don’t rely on fake decoys — geese quickly get used to them and learn to ignore them;
• Don’t wait until they nest — early planning is essential .
  
  

Can These Strategies Work for Small or Private Ponds?

• Yes — even small stormwater ponds in residential communities can be protected;
• Adjustments for space and budget may limit methods to dog patrols and landscape modification;
• Best results when combined and started before nesting season.
  
  

Who Does Goose Control for Vaughan Stormwater Ponds Benefit?

• Municipal Parks Departments — public ponds near trails, benches, or kids' play areas;
• Homeowner Associations (HOAs) — especially in new subdivisions;
• Schools or Institutions — ponds near sports fields or student access;
• Retail and Industrial Parks — ponds near buildings, foot traffic, or loading zones;
• Condo Management Firms — shared spaces near stormwater retention basins;
  
  

Cost of Goose Control & Removal Services for Stormwater Ponds

• Factors that influence cost:
  • Size of the pond area
  • Proximity to buildings or foot traffic
  • Number of deterrent methods needed
  • Frequency of service (weekly vs. monthly)
• Free assessments and a customized plan of action are typically available.
  
  

Contact the GTA's Goose Control Experts: Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control

Stormwater ponds in Vaughan are vital infrastructure — don’t let Canada geese take over. Early and proactive intervention will translate to fewer complaints, less damage, and lower costs. Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control offer humane and professional bird control services for all property types in and around the GTA.

If you are a property manager or responsible for a city department we urge you to schedule an inspection before Canada geese become a problem at your commercial stormwater ponds - Call Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control today!