Geese are known to be aggressive to humans and other animals. Canadian geese, especially. But why are they so hostile? They may honk, hiss, flap, or bite at people. If you have a goose on your property, they may be aggressive toward you and your family.
Territorial Goose Activity
Geese are generally very territorial. This is especially true near their nests or their young. If they feel threatened, they will become hostile. A goose can become aggressive if a person or another animal gets too close to them or their young. In the spring, geese will defend their eggs. As the female goose incubates, the male goose will patrol and protect the surrounding area.
Protecting Food Sources
Geese in urban and suburban areas can be protective of their food or water sources. They may graze on grasses and lawns. Fish ponds and bird baths can be easy water sources for them. If a flock decides that your yard is a good place to eat, they may defend it from those they perceive as threats. This can include you, your family, or your pets.
Geese Are Not Afraid of Humans
These birds are not generally afraid of humans. In some cases, they might be used to being fed by humans. Because of their comfort level around people, an adult goose will not be afraid to fight if threatened.
Do Not Feed Geese
Part of why geese are comfortable around humans is that they are often fed by people. Geese will get used to food from people and may get aggressive if they do not receive food.
Signs of an Aggressive Goose
There are many signs that a nearby goose may be aggressive. Firstly, they may be honking more than usual. A goose that feels threatened will generally keep looking at what it perceives to be a threat. If they feel more threatened, a goose will usually flap its wings and bob its head. It may start running at you if it going to attack.
When Geese Attack
If a goose decides to attack you, try to stay calm. Fast movement or loud noises can be perceived as returned aggression. Don’t turn your back on a goose; it may continue pursuing you. Back up slowly and calmly if possible. Protect your face and clear the area.
If There Is an Aggressive Goose on Your Property
If you have aggressive geese on your property, contact a professional, humane wildlife removal service. The safe and humane removal of the geese from your property is important for the safety of all parties.