Canada Geese are one of the many migratory birds found in Canada who migrate to a more southern climate during the winter months. Most geese winter in the southern United States and Mexico, but due to the noticeable changes in our climate, some geese are still wintering in the southern most regions of central and western Canada, where winters are not lasting nearly as long as they have in the past. Most geese are still migrating, but may not be travelling as far south as previously recorded.

The V-Formation

Almost everyone in Canada has seen geese flying in a V shape formation, but many people are still unsure of the direct benefit of this formation to the geese. Geese fly in a V formation for one main reason, energy conservation.  

Migrating is a long and tiresome journey, and being an egotistical goose in this situation, can lead to mortality through starvation or over exertion of energy. Thankfully, through evolution, geese and other migratory birds have developed behavioural traits that allow them to work as a team rather than as an individual, providing a mutually beneficial outcome for the entire flock.

Leading The Flock

Each goose shares the responsibility of leading the flock. This position is the most difficult to hold due to the fact that the leading goose is subject to the largest amount of wind resistance, and consequently the largest energy expenditure. Each goose behind the lead flies slightly higher than the goose in front of them. This reduces the amount of wind resistance each successive goose is experiencing, in turn reducing the energy output required to migrate. All members of the flock are willing to take turns in this position, only to spend an equal amount of time flying in a low energy cost situation. Migratory birds are truly the epitome of teamwork, and would experience a large population decrease every year during migration if it wasn’t for this wonderful evolutionary adaptation.

Hawkeye is the ONLY Toronto and Golden Horseshoe area licensed Pest Bird Control Specialist offering PERMANENT REMOVAL & GUARANTEED RESULTS. We are uniquely qualified under permits and licenses to PERMANENTLY REMOVE AND CONTROL pest birds such as pigeons, seagulls, geese, starlings, and swallows using a variety of methods including Birds of Prey.  Additionally, we offer cleaning and disinfecting of affected areas and facilitate the future exclusion of birds.

Now with 7 Locations ( 6 In Canada and 1 in the U.S), we are ready to serve you better in Acton,  Toronto, Oshawa,  Bowmanville,  two locations in Mississauga and West Palm Beach in Florida.

Contact us today or Email us at [email protected] if you need help with pest bird control and/or pest bird removal.

Pest Birds such asCormorants,Crows,Ducks,Doves,Geese,Grackels,Seagulls,Pigeons,Robins,Sparrows andStarlings.

Related Articles:
https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-geese-preparing-for-migration-in-the-gta

Many GTA residents assume that Canada geese will soon leave, so the problem is almost over. But in reality, goose activity often increases before migration.

In fact, during the pre-migration period, as families gather before beginning their long journey, goose behaviour can lead to larger flocks and even greater impacts on GTA properties. Understanding Canada goose migration and planning pre-migration goose control can help reduce property damage before flocks become established.

How Canada Geese Prepare for Fall Migration

Geese Increase Their Daily Feeding Activity

• Increased feeding to build energy reserves
• Longer feeding periods
• Greater use of lawns, fields, and open green spaces
  
  

While we may still be buried under snow and ice, the arrival of Canada geese in the GTA is only weeks away. With spring goose season approaching quickly, now is the time to educate yourself and consider options for geese control—before the birds settle in and begin nesting.

Canada geese may return from their southern winter home as early as March. Once geese establish a nest, removal becomes significantly more difficult due to regulations and aggressive behaviour. Early prevention is the most effective and cost-efficient approach. Contact Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control now. 

It is a common assumption that goose problems are over once goslings are grown and adult geese regain flight after their summer moulting season. That's why many property owners assume their goose problems are over once nesting season ends. However, late summer goose control should actually be focused on planning, assessment, and long-term management rather than simply reacting to immediate problems.

Yes, goose behaviour begins changing again as the birds prepare for seasonal movements, but property managers who dismiss geese now often miss an important strategic opportunity.