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title: "Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Removal | Toronto 416.429.5393"
description: "We offer licensed solutions for the control & removal of birds & animals that are humane, natural & can be scaled to suit any pest problem."
url: "https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/goose-removal"
date: "2026-08-21T10:55:54+00:00"
language: "en-GB"
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[Home](https://www.hawkeye.ca/) > Pest Bird & Animal Wildlife Removal | Toronto 416.429.5393

# goose removal

- ### [Canada Geese Migration and Flying V Formation](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/canada-geese-migration-and-flying-v-formation) [!\[geese formation\](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-formation.jpg)Canada Geese](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=198&Itemid=316) 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](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-services/bird-control-cleaning-disinfecting) of affected areas and facilitate the [future exclusion](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-services/balcony-netting-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](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/contact-hawkeye-bird-animal-wildlife-control) us today or Email us at [hawkeye@hawkeye.ca](mailto:hawkeye@hawkeye.ca) if you need help with pest bird control and/or [pest bird removal](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/pest-wildlife-animals). **Pest Birds such as**[**Cormorants**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/cormorants)**,**[**Crows**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/crows)**,**[**Ducks**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/ducks)**,**[**Doves**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/doves)**,**[**Geese**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/geese)**,**[**Grackels**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/grackels)**,**[**Seagulls**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/sea-gulls)**,**[**Pigeons**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/pigeons)**,**[**Robins**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/robins)**,**[**Sparrows**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/sparrows)**and**[**Starlings**](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/starlings)**.** **Related Articles:** [https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-geese-preparing-for-migration-in-the-gta](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-geese-preparing-for-migration-in-the-gta)
- ### [FAQs: Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/goose-control-for-gta-cemeteries-faqs) Hopefully, you enjoyed our 2-part series "Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards" - if you've missed it, check out [Part I](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/goose-control-for-gta-cemeteries-and-graveyards) and [Part II](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/goose-control-for-gta-cemeteries-and-graveyards-2) now. ![blog remove geese from property](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/blog-remove-geese-from-property.webp) Below, we've summed up the most popular questions we receive in regards to geese and cemeteries. [Call Hawkeye](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?Itemid=1168) for a professional assessment and long-term geese management plan.
- ### [Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/goose-control-for-gta-cemeteries-and-graveyards) When thinking of a cemetery, most of us envision a beautifully landscaped park-like place of peace where we are able to reflect, remember, and mourn. We do not expect to be confronted by aggressive Canada geese. ![beautifully landscaped grave site](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-in-cemetaries.webp) Unlike retail plazas or [office parks](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/permanent-raccoon-removal-for-gta-office-buildings), cemeteries must balance a quiet atmosphere and religious or cultural sensitivity with visitor safety, year-round public access and strict maintenance standards. When goose populations become established on cemetery grounds, professional goose removal for cemeteries may be required to restore safety, cleanliness, and the peaceful environment visitors expect.
- ### [Goose Repellents vs. Deterrents: What Works for Goose Control?](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/goose-repellents-vs-deterrents-what-works-for-goose-control) Our beloved [Canada geese](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?Itemid=316) are smart, social, adaptable, and quite happy to live alongside humans. In fact, they thrive in suburban and even urban environments. Unfortunately, geese can become quite a problem for property owners. Learn about what to do about geese on your property, how to get rid of geese, and what will work for you: goose repellents vs. deterrents. ![2 geese laying down](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/goose-deterrent-vs-repellent.webp) For property owners looking for goose control in Toronto, understanding the difference between these methods is the first step toward a long-term solution. Here are some common issues homeowners encounter when geese are on the property: - Droppings and sanitation risks - [Aggressive goose](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/aggressive-goose-control-and-removal-solutions-in-pickering) behaviour during nesting season - Damage to lawns and landscapes
- ### [How to Get Rid of Geese Around Toronto’s Harbourfront Properties](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-geese-around-torontos-harbourfront-properties) [Goose control](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-geese-removal-control)in [Toronto](https://www.toronto.ca/) 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. ![Toronto waterfront](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/canada-geese-toronto-waterfront.webp) ## Goose Removal in the Harbourfront Area ### So, Why Do Geese Love the Harbourfront So Much? - [Toronto's](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/bird-animal-control-services-in-toronto-ontario) 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. ## ![child feeding canada geese](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/toronto-waterfront-geese.webp)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](https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/migratory-birds-legal-protection/convention-act-regulations.html) 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.
- ### [How to Get Rid of Geese in GTA Courtyards](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-geese-in-gta-courtyards) Toronto and its surrounding areas are home to lovely architecture that often features beautiful, cozy courtyards and rooftop gardens. You know who else enjoys these hidden treasures? Our ever-present Canada goose population! ![courtyard](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-in-toronto-courtyards.webp) From Mississauga and Markham's large office parks with courtyards and water features to Vaughan and Oakville's upscale cozy residential hideaways and common areas, geese are claiming these spaces in ever-increasing numbers.
- ### [How to Get Rid of Geese Preparing for Migration in the GTA](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-geese-preparing-for-migration-in-the-gta) Many GTA residents assume that [Canada geese](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/geese) will soon leave, so the problem is almost over. But in reality, goose activity often increases before migration. ![getting ready for goose migration](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/getting-ready-for-goose-migration.webp) 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](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/how-do-i-get-rid-of-geese-on-my-lawn), fields, and open green spaces
- ### [How to Keep Geese Away From Your House](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/how-to-keep-geese-away-from-your-house) Have you heard them yet? Canada geese continue to arrive in southern Ontario after an oh-so-long winter, making goose control in the GTA a growing concern for homeowners. And while you may welcome the sound of honking and its association with spring, you surely aren't looking forward to dealing with geese settling in your yard and around your home or business. ![2 Canada geese in residential area](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/keep-geese-from-house.webp) Discover what you can do to keep geese off your lawn and how to stop them from nesting on your property.
- ### [Ontarians are Warned to Avoid Contact with Wild Birds](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/avian-influenza-warning-ontario) The [Middlesex-London Health Unit](https://www.healthunit.com/news/public-health-unit-warns-residents-to-avoid-contact-with-wil)in Ontario is asking the public not to touch wild birds. This is in response to positive identification of several wild birds who succumbed to Avian Influenza in recent months. ![bird sitting in human hand](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/avian-influenza-bird-flu.webp) ## Canada Geese and Avian Flu Recently, Ontario has seen an increase in the identification of birds killed by a deadly strain of avian flu known as H5NX. Three Canadian Geese recently found deceased in London and Strathroy tested positive for the highly pathogenic strain. In general, wild aquatic birds (water fowl) like geese, ducks, swans, and storks are most likely to harbor the disease - Avian influenza A viruses occur naturally in wild aquatic birds. ## How is Avian Influenza Transmitted? [Transmission](https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/virus-transmission/avian-in-other-animals.html) from birds to humans is very rare, and usually only occurs after close contact with infected birds or highly contaminated environments such as poultry farms or live animal markets. However, it is important to avoid contact with wild birds, particularly deceased ones. This goes for your pets as well., ### Contact with Infected Birds Other birds can become infected through direct contact with the saliva, nasal secretions, or feces of birds that carry the virus or are symptomatic with avian influenza. Unfortunately, this includes backyard poultry such as chickens, quail, ducks, and turkeys. ### Transmission through Bird Droppings ![dead bird avian flu](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/dead-bird-avian-flu.webp)The trouble with the spread of Avian Flu is that infected birds can and will continue their normal activities and defecate in a number of locations on their flight path, potentially infecting several other birds (or, in rarer cases animals) along the way. And, an environment where many birds congregate can quickly become a hot bed for the spread of the virus. ### Airborne Transmission of Avian Flu Although much less common, viral air particles can also be inhaled. This usually happens when feathers or dried bird droppings are stirred up and become airborne. Cleaning and disinfecting an area with large amounts of bird dropping should always be left to professional [Bird and Wildlife Operators](https://www.hawkeye.ca) to ensure safety and prevent the spread of contaminants. ### Contact with Contaminated Surfaces Bird Flu an be transmitted through contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus from infected birds - think cleaning an eavestrough. ### Contact with Contaminated Food and Water Birds, other wildlife, and pets can become infected through contact with contaminated food and water supplies ### Who is at Risk of contracting Bird Flu? Agricultural workers, particularly poultry and cattle farm workers and operators face the highest risk of coming in contact with Bird Flu. To a lesser extent, landfill workers may also be exposed - even though there are strict regulations when it comes to the disposal of dead birds. ## Signs of Avian Influenza ### Birds infected with Avian Influenza Most people's instinct is to help when we see a struggling animal. If you observe any of the following symptoms in a wild bird, please resist the urge to help or comfort: - **Lack of energy or movement - Lethargy** - **Nervousness, tremors, or lack of coordination** - **Swelling around the head, neck, and eyes** - **Coughing, gasping for air, or sneezing** - **Diarrhea** - **Sudden death** ### Avian Flu in Pets Domestic Pets, can become infected and suffer from Avian Influenza. Cats in particular can experience severe illness leading to eventual death from infection with H5N1. Dogs can also contract the virus, although they usually exhibit mild clinical signs and low mortality compared to cats. Here are some of the symptoms to look for: - **Lethargy and Weakness: A noticeable lack of energy or not doing normal activities.** - **Fever: Elevated body temperature, which may make your pet seem more sluggish or uncomfortable.** - **Vomiting or Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal upset that is unusual for your pet** - **What to do if you find a Dead Bird**
- ### [Part II: Goose Control for GTA Cemeteries and Graveyards](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/goose-control-for-gta-cemeteries-and-graveyards-2) In the [last article](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/goose-control-for-gta-cemeteries-and-graveyards), we discussed why graveyards and cemeteries are so vulnerable when it comes to Canada geese infestation. Now, we'll look at how to remedy goose breeding and nesting and how to prevent the same problem from occurring again next spring. ![Arlington cemetary](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-in-graveyard.webp) Deterrents and DIY solutions are not a viable, long-term option to prevent Canada geese from nesting and grazing in GTA cemeteries and memorial parks.
- ### [Public Park Goose Control in the GTA](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/public-park-goose-control-in-the-gta) Goose populations in the GTA and the rest of southern Ontario have continued to increase. While the iconic Canadian geese are a welcome sight after a long winter, their presence and what they leave behind wreaks havoc on our public parks and green spaces. As the number of these birds continues to grow, public park goose control has become an increasingly important priority for municipalities responsible for maintaining safe, clean, and enjoyable green spaces. ![public park](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-control-public-parks.webp) Parks in the Greater Toronto Area (community parks, waterfront parks, and regional parks) often support large resident Canada goose populations as they provide everything geese want and need: - Open grass - Water access - Limited predator pressure - Large gathering areas
- ### [Strategies To Manage Geese At Parks and Beaches](https://www.hawkeye.ca/geese-in-parks-and-on-beaches) ## **Why is it necessary to manage geese at Parks and Beaches?** - Geese at beaches and parks can lead to significant public health concerns. - The presence of geese can interfere with recreational activities and enjoyment of the beaches and parks they frequent. - Geese can cause environmental degradation. Geese can be a significant nuisance on beaches and at [parks](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/blog/public-park-goose-control-in-the-gta) and get in the way of the public enjoying nature and public spaces. The lack of predators and the lush vegetation at parks and beaches makes for a very inviting place for geese to nest, rest, and feed. Goose droppings often carry diseases, as can their feathers. Aside from being unsightly and dangerously slippery, this can lead to public health concerns at beaches and. Goose droppings in the water can contaminate the water and surrounding soil or sand with E coli and other infectious agents, making them hazardous to swimmers or young children accidentally ingesting contaminated water. Nesting geese can also be very aggressive and cause considerable injury to humans in an effort to protect their eggs or young hatchlings. Environmental degradation is another concern; geese munching on young shoots and grasses leads to a diminished root system, dead or stunted vegetation, and eventual soil erosion. Healthy root systems protect against erosion from wind and water. ## Management and Mitigation of Geese **![geese on grassy park area](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-in-parks-beaches.webp)Geese are federally protected wildlife in Canada and the US, and as such, a [permit](https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/migratory-bird-permits/faq-migratory-birds-regulations-2022.html) is necessary for management and mitigation.** A primary strategy is to alter the environment to make it less attractive to geese. Using landscape barriers or low fences can deter geese from coming into an area. Planting unpalatable vegetation or using nontoxic repellants on the vegetation can help keep geese away. Allowing grass to grow a little longer (geese prefer short grass for better visibility and ease of movement), will also slow geese from setting up camp. Visual and auditory deterrents can be used, but are less effective as the geese, over time, become habituated to it. ### Dog Patrols are the Most Effective Way of deterring Geese at Parks and on Beaches. Trained dogs can chase the birds without harming them. Regular patrols are necessary as geese will keep coming back, especially with any water in the area. Dogs are also great to prevent nesting; having dogs in the area regularly will discourage geese from laying eggs. ### Geese Capture and relocation from Parks and Beaches Capture and relocation is also a great way to control goose populations, but requires significant time and effort. Relocation requires permission of the landowners to where the geese will be moved to, as well as a permit from the wildlife service. Regulated hunting - also with a permit from the wildlife service - can help control goose populations where it is considered safe and legal. This approach must be carefully managed by professionals to ensure it is done safely, ethically and sustainably. ### Do Not Feed Geese at Parks and on Beaches Educating the public is of paramount importance. Don't Feed The Birds! Consuming human food is not healthy for geese and will almost certainly guarantee them hanging around and/or returning. If not fed the proper nutrition, geese can become ill and pass illness to other wildlife. If food is not easily available, geese are much less likely to be attracted to areas where humans are. Anything to reduce human and goose conflict is good for humans and geese. Some municipalities have introduced bylaws making it a finable offence to feed any wildlife in public or private spaces. Geese management and mitigation requires ongoing monitoring of goose activity and for the management techniques to allow for adjustments as needed. Through diligent application of these methods and ongoing surveillance, it is possible to effectively maintain the enjoyment of the community’s access to beaches and parks in their municipalities. Humans can coexist peacefully with nature and wildlife in all its glory.
- ### [The Difference Between Goose Control And Goose Removal](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/goose-control-or-removal) [Canada Geese](https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Canada_Goose/overview), while a familiar and somewhat nostalgic sight, do cause a fair bit of headache and damage in urban, suburban, and rural areas. If you are seeking solutions to mitigate geese, we should talk about whether you want to [control geese](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/index.php?Itemid=291) or remove them. Join us as we explore the diffrences. ![family of geese in water](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/geese-control-vs-removal.webp) ## Deciding Between Goose Control and Goose Removal - Goose Control and Goose Removal are terms that are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are actually two very different approaches to wildlife management. - Knowing the difference can help you choose the right strategy for your goose related problems. - Do you want to manage the population of geese on your property or remove them altogether? - Are the geese an occasional nuisance during migration or for a few weeks in the summer months? OR - Do the geese cause significant damage to your property or pose a health risk to people or pets? - Both goose control and goose removal require permits from the government. The Canada Goose is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which is an agreement between many countries around the world. ## What IsThe Difference Between Goose Control And Goose Removal? The difference is the objective. Do you want to manage the population (the numbers) of geese or do you want all of them to move on to somewhere else? Geese Control attempts to limit or maintain the number of geese while Geese Removal moves the flock off of a property. Let's look at how this can be accomplished:
- ### [Which Is the Best Bird of Prey for Goose Control?](https://www.hawkeye.ca/blog/which-is-the-best-bird-of-prey-for-goose-control-2) [Canada Geese](https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Canada_Goose/overview) are increasingly becoming a nuisance across urban and suburban properties. Common goose complaints include excessive droppings, aggressive behaviour, and nesting in unsafe or high-traffic areas. ![2 Canda Geese](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/falconry4geesecontrol.webp) Canada geese are a common sight on rooftops of commercial buildings, in public parks, industrial yards, municipal green spaces, [Toronto's waterfront](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-geese-removal-control), and on the shores of virtually all of Ontario's many lakes. So, what can be done about that? Let's explore why falconry for [goose control](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/toronto-bird-control-pest-birds/geese)(a humane, non-lethal method) is so much more successful than repellents and/or visual or sound-based deterrents. ## Why Geese Are So Hard to Deter First, we need to understand that geese are highly intelligent and social creatures that come with incredible homing instincts. When we hear homing instinct, we think of pigeons or doves... but geese are right up there. They learn and remember a migration journey thousands of miles long, from their spring nesting grounds to their winter home. - **Site Fidelity** Geese return to the same nesting site each year, as long as it is safe and can sustain a growing family; - **Territorial Behaviour** Canada geese are highly territorial during nesting season, often causing conflict between bird and human; - **Sheer Numbers** Geese travel and often nest in large flocks, creating widespread disruption; - **Intelligence** Traditional goose deterrents lose effectiveness over time as geese quickly realize that they represent no physical danger (e.g., decoys, or noise, sprays). ## How Birds of Prey Work as Natural Goose Deterrents Birds of prey are natural predators and geese instinctively know that. Falconry for goose control takes advantage of the natural and inherent predator/prey relationship. - Birds of prey tap into geese’s natural fear response; - The presence of a predator (especially large and dominant birds like eagles) triggers immediate evacuation behaviour; - No harm is done – it’s psychological intimidation, not physical capture; - Repeated exposure builds a “conditioned avoidance response” in geese. ## Birds of Prey Commonly Used for Bird Control - **Falcons** - Used in large open spaces, like landfills; Used for gulls and ducks; - Not ideal for large, aggressive geese - **Hawks (e.g., Harris’s Hawk)** - Agile and able to navigate urban landscape, vineyards, and airport hangars; - Commonly used in pest bird management; - Not suitable for geese - **Eagles (e.g., Bald Eagles)** - Strong presence and size - Best suited for intimidating and dispersing geese - Particularly effective in open areas like airports, large lawns, rooftops, and parks ![Bald eagle head](https://www.hawkeye.ca/component/tags/tag/images/eagle-goose-control.webp) ## Why Eagles Are the Best Bird of Prey for Goose Control - **Intimidation Factor** Eagles are a top predator, able to take down a goose (although that is not the objective). Geese instinctively fear eagles; - **Visibility**Eagles are large, dark raptors visible from long distances and instantly recognizable; - **Versatility**Eagles are suited to work in open spaces (parks, rooftops, or runways) and complex environments; - **Proven Effectiveness**Repeated eagle deployments create lasting avoidance behavior by Canada geese; - **Low Disruption**Falconry using eagles produces no noise or mess; eagles blend into the environment and are safe around the public when flown by an experienced falconer.

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        "addressLocality": "Greater Toronto Area",
        "addressRegion": "Acton, Ontario",
        "postalCode": "L7J2L9"
    },
    "sameAs": [
        "https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hawkeye-Bird-Animal-Control/480095145343592?ref=ts&fref=ts/",
        "https://twitter.com/Danfrankian?lang=en",
        "https://www.instagram.com/hawkeyecanada",
        "https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-frankian-8652092a/",
        "https://www.youtube.com/user/birdandanimalcontrol"
    ]
}
```
</p></body></html>
