Watch out for nesting geese

The Guelph Humane Society (GHS) is urging residents to exercise caution around nesting geese in the coming three to four weeks.

Geese exhibit heightened aggression during this period, particularly when safeguarding their eggs, says a news release from the GHS.

Lisa Veit, executive director of GHS, says, "Geese typically incubate their eggs for approximately 25 days. Following hatching, geese and their offspring vacate the nest to locate a nearby body of water."

Veit said geese select nesting sites purposefully, despite appearances of odd placement.

"We frequently receive inquiries from concerned individuals regarding nests situated in unconventional locations," Veit says. "However, such locales, including parking lots, align with geese's nesting preferences. They seek flat, unobstructed spaces devoid of substantial vegetation, affording them visibility to potential threats from all directions."

During the nesting period, GHS advises the public to adapt in order to minimize potential conflicts. Canadian Geese are protected species under the Migratory Bird Convention Act, which means it is against the law to disturb them or damage their nests.

"Essentially, exercising patience and understanding during this time is of great importance," Veit said. "This phase is critical for geese.  Should they nest near busy entrances, consider utilizing alternate entry points and posting notices to deter disturbances.”

Motorists are also reminded to exercise vigilance for geese on roadways, as recent weeks have seen several geese fatally struck by vehicles.

While GHS Animal Services Officers are unable to intervene with nests directly, individuals suspecting a goose to be sick, injured or orphaned are encouraged to contact GHS at 519-824-3091.