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Are there any other lethal control options for geese besides shooting?

Last Updated: December 05, 2006

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There are options. You might want to contact a nuisance wildlife control operator. They are professionals who will be familiar with the required state and federal permits and will also be able to perform the work for you. It is not difficult for the average person to addle eggs (with protection from the geese and with proper permits), but a roundup requires considerable expertise and knowledge. All lethal control methods require federal and possibly state permits.

Roundups are accomplished through the use of walk-in funnel traps in late June or early July, when the adult birds are molting and have lost the ability to fly and the goslings have not yet fledged. Successful roundups require extensive manpower, equipment, and experience. Few states will allow birds to be relocated. This means birds must be humanely euthanized and disposed of properly.

Addling eggs is a sure method of population control. (A pair of Canada geese can increase to more than 50 birds in as little as five years!) Don't destroy the nest, as this will cause the geese to rebuild in another location and continue laying eggs. As soon as you see the geese building the nest, check for eggs. Dip each egg in a small bucket of corn oil, making sure the egg is totally covered. Place the egg back in the nest. Continue until the goose is done laying.

Be sure you have someone to assist you while addling, as you will need protection from the geese.

You can find an extensive egg addling protocol at Egg Addling Protocol

In some states, you must apply for your federal permits at least six months prior to when you will need them. Check with your state USDA office for details.

Resources: (online)

Waterfowl

Geese

Egg Addling Protocol

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