Canada Goose FAQ:

Why are Canada geese a problem?

   In the past few decades the population of what are known as "resident Canada geese," has exploded.  With a growth rate of 10-15% a year or more, their numbers have increased to an amazing 1,084,000 for the Atlantic Flyaway as of 2002.  There are currently believed to be some 3,000 resident geese in Rhode Island and over 28,000 in Massachusetts.  This number does not include the population of migratory geese.

What are resident Canada geese?

   This name is given to what are now non-migratory Canada geese.  Some populations do still migrate, but they travel much shorter distances, approximately 200 miles. 

Why do we have resident Canada geese?

   Resident geese numbers have risen because of differing factors, the first being their protection under federal law.  Since 1918, Canada geese have been protected by federal law.  Specifically, the law prohibits the hunting of geese, and limits the ways in which their numbers can be controlled.  Second, with growing urban areas and suburban sprawl, the geese have found many man-made habitats which allow them to stay fed and warm all year long. 

Why are resident Canada geese a problem?

   Resident geese make homes of our well manicured lawns, ponds and recreation areas. They can also cause problems at airports. The average goose can eat up to 5 pounds of grass in a single day.  This amount of feces can result in unsightly grass areas.  The average goose also produces about 1.5 pounds of fecal matter per day.  This quickly adds up, leading to more unsightly and hard to clean areas.  Furthermore, obvious health concerns exist when excess amounts of goose feces accumulate where people work, play, or relax.

What methods can be used to help alleviate your goose problem?

   There are several ways to deal with geese. One method involves spraying grass areas with a grape flavored spray, which the geese find distasteful . But this method can quickly become costly and ineffective. The sprays wash off with rain and waterings, they are alsoimpractical for larger properties. Another way to deal with the geese is to try and scare them off using visual scaring devices, such as reflective   tape,fake predators, or noisemakers. These sorts of tactics may work for a short time, but geese will quickly become accustomed to their presence. 

   Of the methods discussed above, none are effective for long. Patrolling your property with Border collies, however, can be a very effective goose deterrent as well as being cost effective.  We sometimes also recommend using some of these techniques in conjunction with our services.

Why use Southern New Englands Goose Patrols trained Border collies?

   For the answer to this read our "Why use Border collies section."