How to Get Rid of Geese Around Ponds

One of the most enviable features a homeowner can possess is a private pond. Ponds attract all sorts of visitors, including geese. At first, these majestic birds seem like an aesthetically pleasing addition. As time goes on, it becomes apparent that all the geese really bring is a mess in the form of large piles of feces all around and inside the pond. This feces can contain the potentially fatal E. Coli bacteria, and will spread to the lake and other animals that come in contact with it.

Things You'll Need

• Decoy
• Low shrubs or bushes
• Bird dog
• Goose repellent
• Goose hunting permit

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Instructions

• 1

  Avoid feeding the geese. Once the geese see your space as a steady food source, they will return every spring.

• 2

  Place a swan, dog or owl decoy in or around the water. The geese will see the decoy as a threat to their goslings and look for a safer place to raise their young. Periodically move the decoy to keep the geese on their toes.

• 3

  Plant low shrubs or bushes around the perimeter of the water. This makes the pond seem like a more difficult and less attractive area for the geese to call their own.

• 4

  Introduce bird dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers and border collies, to the area around the pond. The dog's natural instinct is to chase the birds. Make sure the dog does not attempt to bite or kill the animal. If this occurs, do not allow the dog access to the area.

• 5

  Use goose repellents. There are several on the market, including Bird X "Goose Chase," that make the grass smell and taste terrible. Spread the repellents on the grass around the pond. They last for up to two mowings.

• 6

  Hunt the geese. Check with your local Department of Natural Resources for any permits that must be obtained for hunting. If your state does not have a recognized goose hunting season, you may be able to apply for a special, one-time permit. To receive this permit, you must prove that the goose population is causing significant damage to your property.