Canada Geese
Problems
The presence of Canada Geese can cause a number of problems, both to the health and safety of humans and damage to the environment.
Like Pigeons, Canada Goose droppings (produced every 6 minutes when on dry land), contain harmful bacteria, which, if they entered the food chain could cause severe food poisoning. Other problems associated with Canada Goose droppings include - an increase in nutrient loadings in water bodies, leading to potentially toxic algal blooms and low oxygen levels in water; also their droppings can make footpaths and other surfaces slippery.
In medium sized groups, Canada Geese may also - damage amenity grassland in public parks, creating unsightly and unhygienic areas of mud and droppings; trample and graze pasture and crops; damage and in some cases destroy wildlife habitats from grazing or trampling on nesting sites of other bird species, and also reed beds, which may lead to the erosion of river banks.
Canada Geese and Bird-strikes
A collision between any species of bird and an aeroplane is a hazardous event, but if Canada Geese are involved the results can be fatal.
In the UK no fatal incidents have ever occurred, although in April 2007, a Boeing 757 flying out of Manchester Airport was forced to make an emergency landing after a collision with two herons resulted in flames appearing out of one of the engines (More details). The most notable incident involving Canada Geese occurred in September 1995, in the US, where a United States Air force place collided with a flock of Canada Geese killing all 24 crew members (More details).
Because of incidents such as this and other 'near miss' events, Canada Geese pose a very serious threat to human health and safety.
Solutions
Suddenstrike Ltd is experienced in the control and management of Canada Geese, having undertaken many successful management programs for local authorities and businesses, as well as offering advice and consultancy. All management techniques used are 100% legal, and all of our technicians are fully trained, qualified, experienced and insured.
Some of the methods employed by Suddenstrike Ltd include -
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Visual and Acoustic Deterrents - Most often used as short-term solutions, visual and acoustic deterrents such as flags, gas bangers and distress call systems are effective providing that they are installed and maintained correctly.
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Habitat Management - In some situations, altering their habitat can make a site un-habitable for Canada Geese to , forcing them to find a new site with may be more attractive to them.
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Population management - Under licence from DEFRA, Canada Goose populations may be effectively managed using methods such as egg control and culling. both methods are effective as long term solutions. Our technicians are licensed, experienced, trained and insured to legally and lawfully carry out these methods of management.
