Get the honk out of their way: Geese are back and they’re agitated

It’s another sign of spring; Canada geese are back in a big way, and they’re already agitated.

Whether you love them or hate them, the geese have reemerged around Waterloo Region as they’re getting ready to lay their first eggs of the season.

If you come across one in your path while you’re out for a walk, Bill Dowd with Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control has some advice.

“I would recommend just getting out of their way,” said Dowd.

While they’re a protected bird here in Canada, the geese don’t really ‘return the favour’ and can be dangerous to people and pets if you don’t give them their personal space.

“They are a large bird and very strong, they can lift up their wing and knock a human over. They can be very aggressive and we recommend not going near them, just leave them be.”

In addition to their bad tempers, Dowd said Canada geese droppings can be hazardous and are linked to concerns including those associated with E. coli and West Nile.

They’re also not shy about their waste, with the average goose defecating 1.5 pounds per day.

If you’re not a fan of the geese, there’s bad news.

“The population just keeps on growing, we get more and more geese calls every single year from all of our franchise locations — not only across Ontario but British Columbia, Quebec, and the U.S. as well,” said Dowd.

He added while the Canada geese population is flourishing in urban centres, their presence is also leading to an increase in pest populations.

“When they lay their eggs, other species will come in as well. There’s been an increase in rodent populations, rats especially, which have been known to eat the eggs and chicks.”

You should also anticipate some temporary traffic jams in areas where the geese set-up shop, as they often cross the road in groups and don’t ever seem to be in a hurry.

One spot where you’ll see a lot of geese locally, is along Ira Needles Boulevard in Kitchener and at The Boardwalk.

Dowd said for whatever reason, Canada geese seem ‘to love’ nesting at shopping centres and in front of store entrances.

“I don’t know why. Property owners should be diligent, if you’re starting to see Canada geese on your property — call Skedaddle.”

Dowd said Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control can help deal with any rogue geese, which includes getting the proper permissions to re-home them.