Solutions available to address nuisance geese

Geese are starting to nest across Nebraska, and, as with most wildlife, too many in a single location or just a few in the wrong spot can lead to depredation and nuisance issues.

Nebraska Game and Parks reminds people many issues, such as grass damage, aggression or excess feces, can be prevented or mitigated.

Steps businesses or landowners can take on their own include:

• Habitat modification: Eliminate isolated areas for nesting, such as nesting boxes, islands or peninsulas. Allow for more unmanicured areas on your property but keep areas close to entrances free of vegetation. Consider changing landscaping materials from plant-based to rock-based.
• Barriers and repellents: Add protective barriers along lakes or water, including fences, rock barriers, riprap or vegetation. If lawn or green-space damage is occurring, consider applying commercially available goose and bird repellent to grass to prevent feeding.

Wildlife professionals can provide additional guidance for techniques — including hazing or egg oiling — that address goose depredation. Remember: Not all responses are appropriate for all situations, and geese, eggs and nests are protected by state and federal law.

For technical advice or for help with nuisance geese, contact a Game and Parks biologist through the contact form on OutdoorNebraska.gov’s “depredation” page.