Controlling Pest Geese

By Carolyn Griffin

During the past few decades, golf has gained in popularity as a recreational pastime and as a passion. Golf courses comprise a variety of habitats. All areas of the golf course are a habitat—even tees, greens and fairways. When pest birds, such as geese, inhabit golf course properties, many golf course facilities make the mistake that non-intervention is the best option; however, intervention and management is the preferred bird control method. Over the past ten years, one of the main challenges for golf course owners is being environmentally sensitive. 

The geese population has increased in urban and suburban areas in recent years, and they are often considered pests. Geese feed by grazing in fields and large lawns, and they are often seen in flight moving in pairs or in flocks, often in a “V” formation. Their habitat is found anywhere near lakes, rivers, ponds, or other small or large bodies of water, such as those found in golf course communities.

With a life expectancy of 25 years, geese spend most of the day foraging for food, which is primarily obtained by grazing. They like short grasslands next to a body of water and prefer fertilized grass for feeding. This is what attracts them to golf courses, playgrounds, and other well-maintained lawns.

Goose control products that will deter geese from inhabiting golf courses and other grassy areas include goose repellents and super sonics. 

The goose repellent is applied to grass areas where geese have become a nuisance. You can treat grass areas where geese graze. Geese cannot stand the ingredient (grape extract, methyl anthrantitate), yet the product is safe for pets and humans. The extract irritates the goose’s trigeminal nerve and mucous membrane when a goose eats the product. Because geese do not like this sensation, they will leave the treated area.

The repellent is beneficial as it keeps property clear of pest geese and their droppings. This low cost, effective, and successful goose control solution works when geese eat the distasteful treated grass, thus impelling them to leave the area. The goose repellent is simple, easy to apply, and rain and water resistant. Finally, the product is safe and non-toxic: it will not harm humans, ducks, geese, or other animals.

The goose sonic scares pest geese with loud sounds such as distress and predator calls. The bird sonic is species specific as it allows you to choose the pest bird you are trying to eradicate. With a controllable volume, this product covers between one-six acres, is sun and weather resistant, and works day or night. You simply program the unit for your pest bird.  The specific goose sonic keeps pest geese off your property, and it comes with two free satellite speakers. Finally, the cost effective and affordable goose control sonic is the lowest cost sonic system on the market.

The goose repellent and the goose sonic are two humane and simple methods to keep your golf course free of nuisance geese and their droppings. The benefits are two-fold: you can make your golf customers happy as they can play on a sanitary course which means greater profits for you as you will increase your profits from repeat customers.  Thus, "Golfing Without Geese" by using goose control products translates into satisfied customers.

by Carolyn Griffin

Spring, the season of rebirth, renewal and regrowth, indicates that the short winter days are being replaced with longer and warmer days. With the blossoming of various plant species and the reawakening and return of animals, spring indicates new life—both plants and animals—being born. During spring, the infamous swallows return to warmer climates. However, with their return, they need a new home. Thus, they try to build mud nests in nooks such as above doors and in eaves.

Barn swallows and cliff swallows sometimes come into conflict with people because of their mud nest building habits, which are often attached to buildings. Cliff swallows nest in large colonies of up to several hundred pairs; however, barn swallows tend to nest as single pairs. Four basic conditions are needed by nesting cliff and barn swallows: a fresh water source for drinking; an open habitat for foraging; a supply of mud of the proper consistency for nest building; a suitable surface for nest attachment, such as beneath and overhang or ledge.

The best control tactic is altering the suitability of the attachment site. There are several ways this can be done: through the use of netting and using bird spikes. Both of these methods are safe for both birds and humans. Nest removal should be initiated at the first sign because it is illegal to remove nests with eggs of young swallows. Although nests can be washed down with a hose, persistent swallows may attempt to rebuild nests several times unless they are deterred with bird control methods.

Bird spikes keep pest birds from landing and roosting on flat or curved surfaces. This product will help you get rid of swallows and the product is available in a variety of sizes. In fact, there are many different types of spikes. Some examples include: stainless steel bird spikes; polycarbonate plastic bird spikes; bird gutter spikes; and the mega bird spike.

 These products are both humane and safe for both the installer and the bird, and the spikes all come with a guarantee for effectiveness.   For example, the bird gutter spikes will fit into any and all gutters due to their adaptability. The polycarbonate plastic spikes are cost effective: they are half the cost of steel, yet provide the same strength.  In addition, the plastic bird spike is available in a variety of colors. Finally, the stainless steel bird spikes and polycarbonate plastic bird spikes come in a wide variety of widths.

In addition to the bird spikes, netting is an effective swallow control method and option. As with the bird spikes, bird netting is used for total exclusion of pest birds. The products have a ten year guarantee, and its strength and durability serve as an effective bird deterrent. Three types of bird netting are available: heavy duty bird netting, no-knot bird netting, and ultra-net plastic bird netting. Custom sizes are available upon request, and the products are easy to install and protect plants, bushes, and structures.

With the arrival of spring, many thoughts come to mind: warmer weather, outside furniture, barbecues, flowers in bloom, and birds in flight and nesting. As swallows return to the warmer climate and begin the process of nesting, you must be aware that the use of toxicants, trapping, and shooting are all against the law. This is because swallows are classified as migratory insectivorous birds under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. Thus, safe and humane bird control methods may protect your structures from having unsightly nests built.

During spring, the transition between winter and summer, a period of renewal, rebirth, and regrowth occurs. Certain signs indicate spring's arrival, such as plants blossoming and animals becoming active again. In particular, birds emerge, and many seasonal hassles result. 

For example, woodpeckers can wreak havoc on structures, which causes both costly and time consuming repairs.  Woodpeckers usually feed on insects found in trees or wood. In the spring, male woodpeckers mark their territory with a rhythmic pecking sequence, known as drumming.  In addition to claiming their territories, drumming also attracts female woodpeckers. Drumming is performed mainly in the springtime, and woodpeckers discontinue this activity once nesting behaviors begin.  With the arrival of pest birds, many products will help you get rid of woodpeckers.  Two easily available bird repellents are bird netting and bird spikes.

Bird proof netting is used for pest bird total exclusion and woodpecker control.  Most bird netting from Bird B Gone has a ten year guarantee, and netting products are strong and durable, an effective bird control method. Heavy duty netting is affordable and endorsed by architects, who specify the product as the number one bird deterrent. This particular bird netting is U.V. protected and both rot- and waterproof. 

Another netting products is Ultra Plastic Bird Netting.  This easily installed product can be customized upon request.  Ultra Net Plastic Bird Netting protects plants, bushes, and structures. This long lasting product is durable, virtually invisible, and easily installed.

Bird Spikes, another product, keep birds from landing and roosting on flat or curved surfaces.   For ease in installation, the product is available in two foot sections in 50’ per box. In addition, the product is available in a variety of sizes. One particular type of spikes, the stainless steel bird spikes, are safe and effective. The product is guaranteed for ten years and humane: it will not harm birds or the installer. Stainless steel bird spikes are available in 1”, 3”, 5“, and 8” widths. 

Polycarbonite plastic spikes are a cost effective solution as they are half the cost of steel spikes, yet the same strength. The spikes are made from unbreakable UV protected poly carbonite, and they come with a five year guarantee. They are available in 3”, 5”, and 7” widths in a wide variety of colors. Finally, gutter spikes have a ten year guarantee. This product prevents birds from landing on gutter ledges and fits into any and all gutters.

As spring approaches, many products will save your structure from costly damage. Effective, easy to install products will save you time and money and protect your structure.

Imagine a serene, sunny day on the sparkling, cobalt blue-azure ocean—a day of boating, cruising, entertaining, or recreationally fishing. This idyllic vision is common for marine enthusiasts, who have a strong connection with the water.  In 2009, The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation reported that greater than 60% of boating participants went cruising, followed by fishing as the second most popular boating activity. Moreover, greater than 7% of all Americans over age 16—which translates to approximately 20.5 million people—own a boat while an additional 9.6 million people are considering owning a boat. 

Demographically, males (7.9%) favor owning a boat compared to females (6.6%). Boating participation numbers are significant. For example, in 2009, more than 50 million participants, or 17.9% of Americans age 16 and older went boating. The most active groups are males, individuals with household incomes from $75-$99K, seniors and individuals ages 45-64 participate more frequently than other demographic groups. The only “glitch” that can interfere with boaters’ activities is if wayward, pest birds nest or roost on the boat or in the vicinity. Unexpected pest birds can cause damage to boats and also use up the boater’s free time when an owner has to clean up unsanitary pest bird droppings.  Bird repellant products, such as those described below, are humane live bird traps.

Spikes

Ideally, spikes are used to deter pest pigeons, seagulls, and larger birds. This bird deterrent keep birds from landing, roosting, and nesting on flat surfaces. Stainless steel bird spikes are virtually invisible, will not harm the birds, and are easy to install and maintain. The product comes with a ten year guarantee, and it is available in 3”, 5”, and 8” widths. The product comes in two foot sections for easy installation, and it is available in six foot, 20 foot, and 50 foot boxes. Stainless steel bird spikes are installed with either screws or an adhesive, and the product is ideal for pest pigeons, seagulls, and larger pest birds. This flexible product can be installed on curved surfaces. Most importantly, it is humane and will not harm birds as this is an effective bird deterrent.

Plastic bird spikes are also an effective pest bird deterrent on boats.   This product is extremely durable and as strong as steel, yet only half the cost. These virtually invisible plastic bird spikes are made from unbreakable UV protected polycarbonate. They are easy to install and maintain, and they carry a five year guarantee. Available in 3”, 5”, and 7” widths, they come in 6 feet, 20 feet, and 50 feet boxes. The color variety is beneficial as it camouflages with the environment. 

Solar Bird Repeller

The Solar Bird Repeller repels birds by continually sweeping up to five feet in diameter. This product is lightweight and easy to mount, and it is ideal for boats. It can be mounted on flat or angled surfaces. Rotating at 30 rpms, it is solar powered for extended use, and it deters birds from landing and roosting. The product has two 2.5 feet telescoping rods, solar panel powers motor and the two AA rechargeable batteries for extended operation. Before installing this product, it is important to do a thorough clean up. The solar bird repeller is easy to install: just screw on the solar panel, attach the telescoping wands and set where you want to deter pest birds away. The Solar Bird Repeller is a humane bird repellant product, and it does not harm people or birds.

The next time you decide to enjoy a day of boating, keep in mind that there are several safe, humane bird control products deter pest birds. Instead of spending your time cleaning up the mess that these pest birds cause, you can use these different methods of pest bird control.

Pigeons were in the news recently for their excessive defecation on “The Kings of Leon” band at a Missouri concert venue. After an assault of pest bird poop from the stage rafters, the pigeons’ droppings shut down the concert as band members were bombarded and left the stage seeking refuge. As demonstrated here, pigeons are a health hazard and nuisance, even to unsuspecting musicians.  
 

Also known as rock doves, pigeons inhabit almost any North American environment. These stout pest birds have short necks and short slender bills. They build insubstantial nests made from sticks and other debris, which can be placed in trees, on ledges, or on the ground. Pigeons vary greatly in size, and they have strong wing muscles and are considered one of the strongest flyers of all birds. In flight, they are also able to maneuver with great ease. Pigeons live in groups called flocks, and they show a strong attraction to human built structures, which is both costly and unsanitary.  Getting rid of pigeons with a bird repellent can be a simple task given the proper tools: bird netting and bird spikes.

Bird Netting to Protect Foliage and Structures

Bird netting can be used to physically block pest pigeons from bushes or to get rid of pigeons from structures. The netting will protect plants, gardens, and structures from pest birds, and it is made of U.V. Protected Polypropylene material. Netting is virtually invisible and easy to install. It is made of strong, lightweight material. The no knot bird netting is strong, light, and easy to install. In addition, custom sizes are available upon request, and the product comes with a ten year guarantee.

Another type of bird netting, Copper Mesh, is used as a physical barrier to keep pest birds from nesting or roosting in small openings or spaces. The Copper Mesh is sold in 20 foot or 100 foot sections, and it can be used under eaves, on roof tiles, in retractable awnings, behind signs, where pipes enter siding and the foundation, or in cracks, holes, and any openings where birds are nesting and roosting.  These methods are proven to get rid of birds, especially pest pigeons.

Bird Spikes to Avert Pest Pigeons

Bird spikes can also be used to protect your structure or bushes. The bird spikes keep larger pest birds, such as the pigeon, from landing and roosting. The bird spikes are easy to install, and they are available in an array of sizes for flat or curved surfaces. Bird spikes are available in either stainless steel or polycarbonate plastic. The spikes will not cut or injure the installer, and they will not harm birds. The polycarbonate spikes are as tough as steel yet half the cost. The bird spikes are available in a variety of colors, so they can be camouflaged with the environment for aesthetic appeal while getting rid of pigeons.
 

As mentioned above, several humane products will stop pigeons from nesting. The result is that you will enjoy a concert, your garden, or your home without the fear of disease or unsanitary conditions. While there were many unhappy concert goers recently in Missouri, this pigeon poop problem would have been prevented if the concert promoters had taken steps to deter the pest birds.  Getting rid of pigeons and other pest birds is an easy task if you use products such as bird netting and bird spikes.  If not, this costly, health hazard can wreak havoc on your structure or guests.  Pigeon control is simple with bird netting and bird spikes.

With summer’s arrival, many people envision themselves sitting in their garden, enjoying the idyllic atmosphere. Gardens can have aesthetic, functional, and recreational uses. Although some gardens are for ornamental purposes only, other gardens produce food crops with decorative plants interspersed. Food gardening is on the rise.  Gardens are claiming an even more important role in the gardener’s lives. According to the National Gardening Association, in 2009 43 million households grew their own fruits, vegetables, berries and herbs—that is up 19% from 36 million households in 2008. 

Demographically, a broad cross section of the U.S. population participates in gardening activities. In fact, there are few other outdoor activities where virtually every demographic group is represented.  Another important trend is that nine out of 10 households believe it is important to maintain their landscapes in a way that benefits the environment. Despite the amount of information available, only half of all households say they are knowledgeable about how to maintain their home lawn or garden using good environmental stewardship practices. In fact, 30% of households admit they are not at all or not very knowledgeable about how to care for their landscape in a way that benefits the environment. 

Bird control Methods

While having a garden is a lovely way to spend time, pest birds can disrupt your garden environment. In order to control pest birds, there are several options you can use.

Plastic Bird Spikes can be installed so that birds cannot land on the uneven surface. These almost invisible spikes can be used on window sills, to cover a patio, along a ledge, or under eaves. This product is guaranteed for five years and is available in 3”, 5”, and 7” widths, with a fast and easy application.

The bird chase super sonic uses sound to scare birds from large open spaces. By using distress calls or predator calls, this product is ideal for use in gardens. An internal speaker covers an acre of land, and the sonic bird control unit can be programmed for different pest bird species. The sonic is weatherproof and designed for outdoor use.

Visual bird control products, such as a hawk, can be used to scare away pest birds. This visual bird deterrent is effective for both small and large pest birds as the decoy deters the birds. The hawk is easy to mount and is realistic looking in addition to being an economical solution to control pest birds.

Finally, bird control netting can be used to block birds from unwanted areas. This product protects fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and fruit bushes. The netting is sold in two sizes—14’ x 100’ and 14’ x 200’. The three different mesh sizes deter a variety of pest birds. The netting is durable, virtually invisible, strong and lightweight.  

Bird control methods are a safe, humane, and green way to control and deter pest birds. Once pest birds are out of your garden, you can enjoy all that nature has to offer—in peace and quiet.

From childish games such as Duck-Duck-Goose to Mother Goose nursery rhymes, geese can be portrayed as “silly” animals and are known for their innocence and ill fated nature. However, geese pose a real problem when they inhabit humans’ environment, and the geese population is increasing in numbers rapidly.  The reasons for the increased goose population is that their habitat is abundant, they have a high reproductive potential and a long life span, and mortality from hunting and other predation is low. Furthermore, Canada geese are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so it is illegal to hunt, kill, sell, purchase, or possess migratory birds or their parts except as regulations permit.

Geese feed primarily on short grasses such as those found in parks, lawns and golf courses. They require feeding sites with open vistas and access to lakes and marshes to escape danger. As a result, golf courses, parks, and large lawns next to ponds, marshes, and lakes often provide the type of environment in which geese thrive. Increasing goose populations will eventually create a larger demand for habitat. Although most people find a few geese acceptable, problems develop as local flocks grow and the droppings become excessive. Problems include overgrazed lawns, accumulations of droppings and feathers on play areas and walkways, nutrient loading in ponds, public health concerns at beaches and drinking water supplies, aggressive behavior by nesting birds, and safety hazards near roads and airports.

Geese Control Methods

Control measures should be started as soon as geese enter an area, and persistence is the key. A long term strategy is needed.   

Goose Deterrent Sonics, such as the Goose-B-Gone Super Sonic, are outdoor sound devices that deter geese from large open spaces. This product is ideal for the backyard, shorelines, gardens, lawn areas, parks, golf courses, and green belts. The product works by having an internal speaker and two external speakers that cover three acres. Sonics are weatherproof, and they can be turned on and off at any time. It plays recorded goose distress calls. The calls are played every ten minutes to alert geese of danger. The products are durable and highly effective.

Goose repellents are another method of controlling the geese population. A goose repellent will keep properties clean from goose droppings. Geese and ducks find the taste unpalatable, and so they leave to find other areas in which to eat. The product is non toxic, so it will not harm people or animals. In addition, the product is rain and water resistant.

Finally, another method to control geese is the coyote decoy. The two dimensional decoy is viewed as a threat by the geese. This decoy can be used in golf courses, parks, athletic fields, business grounds. Each set of two decoys are made of durable plastic and are UV and weather resistant.

All products mentioned above are human and effective bird control products. The problems that an overabundance of geese can cause will easily be resolved through the use of bird deterrent products.