Management of Canada Goose Nesting

Canada Geese Nest

Canada geese are a protected species (www.fws.gov/laws/lawsdigest/migtrea.html). However, there is a program to assist with the management of Canada goose nesting once they have  nested on your property and are causing a problem.

The Resident Canada Goose Nest and Egg Depredation Order (www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_damage/waterfowl/50_cfr21.50.shtml) was issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) in 2006 (50 CFR 21.50). The Depredation Order authorizes landowners and local governments who register with the FWS to destroy resident Canada goose nests and eggs on their property from March 1 through June 30, when necessary, to resolve or prevent injury to people, and damage to property, agricultural crops, or other interests.

In order to conduct these activities, landowners must register anytime between January 1 and June 30 of the year in which the activity will take place. The registration must be renewed annually, following submission of an annual report of the number of nests with eggs destroyed. There is no fee for the registration. The process requires the application of appropriate nonlethal methods to minimize the extent to which eggs must be destroyed.

At Ohio Geese Control, we assist our clients in managing the method of depredation. We can be available to our clients on site and after working hours as needed. Our skilled workers are trained in the appropriate methods that are approved by the Division of Wildlife. If you have questions, email us at questions [at] ohiogeesecontrol.com and we will assist you.