Top 5 Non-Lethal Techniques to Control Geese on your Property

The Goose population is increasing at an alarming rate.  According to Ducks Unlimited Dr. Mark Petrie, North America has three times as many Geese as there were just 30 years ago, which offers many new challenges for management. See related article.  Geese numbers can get so high that in an area, their droppings can cover your lawn, pollute your water, destroy a golf course, and increase risk for bird strikes on airfields. Obviously, the most common way to control the Goose population is depredation, whether it be by hunting, or oiling the nest in the spring. Let us look at the Top 5 Non-Lethal Techniques to Control Geese.

1. Hazing with Dogs – A new, extremely effective and popular way to eliminate Geese from staying too long on your property, golf course, or airfield. This new approach presents a “real predator” to Geese grouping up and makes it easy to dispurse them and prevent damage and risks. Loomacres Management has implemented this strategy on airfields to prevent bird strikes with airplanes. A well-trained dog such as a Labrador Retriever, Border Collie, or honestly just about any dog that likes to chase, can be the most effective way to control Geese.

 

1. Effigies – A silhouette of a dog or coyote around a pond edge, in the middle of a field, or even placed on a fairway (golf courses) can help keep Geese from landing in a certain area. It is a cheap and effective practice that we at Loomacres use for several of our clients and we highly recommend buying them from Watch Dog Goose Control. For more information, watch this video from Biologist Bradley Lewis.  

 

1. Pyrotechnics – The use of Pyrotechnics or what we call bangers and screamers is a favorite among biologists and pest control companies. Pyrotechnics or Pyros are noise making devices that are shot out of a device or 12-gauge shotgun. You may need to consult with your local Police Department or obtain a special permit to do so but this will certainly accomplish your goal of keeping Geese away from your property.

 

1. Lasers – The use of a high-powered laser beam is a simple and effective way, especially if you are looking to save money. Simply shine a laser at the flock of Geese and wait for them to become spooked and leave. It typically only takes one Goose to see the laser, become skittish, and signal to the rest of the flock it's time to go. For more information visit the related link.  

 

1. Propane Cannons – A strategically placed Propane Cannon can be used to keep Geese from regularly flocking in an undesired location. They can even be set using a timer, either early in the morning, midday, or evenings, to keep a flock of Geese from staging in an area. The noise itself will not only scare the Geese but other animals as well.

If you have questions or would like to discuss these techniques, please fill out the comment section below. Someone from Loomacres will contact you and answer your questions. Please remember that these techniques are effective, but can often lose their strength over time if not reinforced with lethal control. Nuisance animals can become accustomed to the noises and visual deterrents.