GUELPH, ON (April 26, 2024) – The Guelph Humane Society (GHS) urges 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.
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 emphasizes that 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 says. “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.
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About the Guelph Humane Society:
The Guelph Humane Society advocates for all animals, and in particular those animals whose lives it can influence, through care, education, community support, protection, and leadership. Founded in 1893, the Guelph Humane Society provides care and shelter for approximately 3,000 homeless, stray, injured and abused animals each year in Guelph and Wellington County. GHS is a registered charitable, non-profit organization that does not receive government funding. Visit www.guelphhumane.ca to discover more.
Follow GHS on social:
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok: @guelphhumane
Media Contact:
Jane Dawkins
Director Communications and Community Engagement
Guelph Humane Society
519-824-3091
jdawkins@guelphhumane.ca
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