Goose Control in the Backyard
Businesses and homes are damaged every year by pest geese, with cleanup and repairs costing millions of dollars annually. Wherever there is a water source—even if it's just a backyard swimming pool—pest geese quickly become a major issue. Effective goose control needs to be put into action to prevent the destruction these birds leave in their wake. Proper goose control will not only keep geese away, but it will also deter other nuisance birds like crows, pigeons, grackles, and sparrows. Investing in goose control is very inexpensive compared to the high cost of property damage. Bird droppings are acidic in nature and can eat through surfaces including paint, wood, and metal, while both nesting materials and feces harbor diseases that can be transmitted to humans. For more helpful tips, be sure to read our guides on how to get rid of geese in backyard pools and exploring goose deterrents needed in planned communities.
Safe and Humane Goose Control Products
There are many goose control products available that are completely safe and humane, effectively keeping geese and other pest birds away without violating the law. Migratory birds are protected under federal statutes like the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, meaning lethal methods are strictly off-limits. Instead, the best solutions rely on scaring birds away, physically blocking them from an area, or using sensory deterrents to make the environment unappealing.
Liquid Goose Repellent
One popular deterrent is a non-toxic liquid spray applied directly to grassy areas. Public parks, golf courses, and cemeteries frequently use this type of liquid bird repellent. Made from a natural grape extract called methyl anthranilate, the formula is harmless to plants, animals, and humans. However, this liquid goose deterrent irritates birds' trigeminal nerves and mucous membranes, creating an uncomfortable sensation that causes them to actively avoid treated zones.
Coyote Decoys
Another excellent goose control product for wide-open spaces is the coyote decoy. The coyote decoy is a visual deterrent that effectively scares away geese and ducks. Having one near the water is a great way to keep birds out of backyard pools. Because coyotes are natural predators of waterfowl, geese will panic and flee the area immediately upon seeing the life-like replica. Fabricated from durable, UV-resistant plastic built for outdoor use, these decoys work best when you occasionally move their location so the birds do not get used to them.
Other Visual Deterrents
Additional visual goose deterrents, such as scare balloons and flat diverters, work by creating a visual disturbance. Birds dislike the shiny reflective surfaces, and the predator-eye markings printed on the sides help frighten geese and other pest birds away.
By applying targeted goose and bird deterrents, you can eliminate hazardous, messy droppings and keep your backyard clean, safe, and entirely free of geese.