How to Keep Geese off Property

The goose population has risen dramatically since the 1960s. They are opportunistic and can acclimate to people, so nesting in residential areas and public parks is common. Geese can damage grass and display aggressive behavior. Feathers and droppings are a nuisance. In most cases it's illegal to kill geese, but there are some methods you can use to try to keep geese away.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Evaluate the geese's habits. If they walk to the site, modify the area to keep them away. If they fly, use harrassment methods.

2. Harass the geese with automatic exploders, whistle bombs, sirens or shell crackers fired from a shotgun. Check your local laws to see if the use of these items is prohibited. Put up flags, streamers and balloons to harass the geese. Try a motion detector or sprinklers.

3. Replace grass with plants that geese don't like to eat, like euonymus and periwinkle. Let grass grow higher than 10 inches tall.

4. Use a barrier to keep geese away from a certain area or make a pond less attractive. Erect a low fence make of wire or mesh, at least 30 inches tall. Try a low-voltage electric fence. String wire low along the ground. Make your fence look better by planting a hedge around it.

5. Apply a repellent to the grass. These repellents are safe for humans. Repellents are expensive and need to be maintained, so they are better in large areas than yards. Repellents wash off in the rain and need to be reapplied several times each year.

Tips & Warnings

• Border collies and other herding dogs can be trained to chase geese away.

Resources

• Nixalite bird control products