Do you have a problem with geese leaving their droppings all over your property? If you're a homeowner or a business owner with a lawn or waterfront property, you know the frustration of having to deal with this unsightly and smelly problem. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and insights on how to deal with common issues related to a goose-poop-covered lawn. From why geese are drawn to your property to safety concerns for humans and pets, and whether you're looking for prevention or cleanup strategies, we've got you covered.
Help - There’s goose poop everywhere!
Where you find geese, you will certainly find goose poop… and lots of it. How much do geese poop a day? Get ready for some mind-blowing numbers. Geese can eat up to four pounds of grass every day which produces around two pounds of waste daily. Multiply that by how many geese you’re spotting in your yard or common space, and you have a goose poop problem. During migration season, you may see an increase in the number of geese on your property, which means even more poop to clean up!
One of the biggest complaints homeowners have is the unpleasant odor that comes with goose poop. Not only does it smell bad, but it can attract other unwanted pests, making the problem even worse. To avoid the smell, remove as much of the waste from the yard, and consider using a lawn treatment that neutralizes the odor.
Can goose poop make dogs sick?
Another frequently asked question when it comes to goose poop is what are the potential effects it can have on pets. Dogs, in particular, are known for their tendency to eat anything they come across, including goose droppings. This can be dangerous for their health, as goose poop contains harmful bacteria and parasites. To prevent your dog from eating goose poop, make sure to keep an eye on them when they're outside and clean up any waste as soon as possible. Keep your pup’s leash short and be vigilant when walking on common area paths and sidewalks around lakes and ponds to avoid your pooch from feasting on anything they shouldn’t.
How to keep geese from pooping on your lawn or property
It is likely that geese have made a home or frequent visiting spot of your property because it has several things that they need. A location close to water, a food source, and protection from or lack of predators makes for a prime destination spot for geese. Removing some of these desirables from the situation will help in deterring geese from entering your space.
Remove the food source: Remove bird feeders from your yard as geese often like to snack on this easy-to-access meal. For business owners and commercial properties, ensure residents and visitors do not feed the geese. Post signs around the property to convey this message.
Gating and fencing: Since geese feast on grass and this can’t necessarily be removed, those with a significant goose problem may want to consider fencing in their yard or property. A fence of at least four feet high is enough to deter geese from wandering onto your lawn. Geese tend to stay away from tall grasses where predators may hide so a natural barrier around your space can also be an effective deterrent. Cover small ponds with a wire grid so geese are not drawn to them. A grid of 12 inches, placed 8” above the water, will keep geese out but still allow more desirable visitors, like mallard ducks, to enjoy.
Encourage returning guests to check out: Geese mate for life, and when they find an ideal nesting spot, they’ll come back to that spot year after year. If you notice an area where geese have nested in the past, place a heavy object, like a large landscaping rock in its place to discourage geese from returning next year.
Create a hostile environment: Make your yard or common area unwelcoming to geese. If your dog has a presence in your yard, geese will not feel comfortable inhabiting it. No dogs? Consider making a homemade goose repellent by filling an empty laundry detergent bottle with rocks. Shake the homemade noisemaker when you notice geese in your space to frighten them away.
Goose removal services: Did you know you can hire companies to help rid your property of geese? Herding dogs are brought to your home or common area and chase the geese away without physically contacting them. When dogs are consistently present (often twice a day for several days), the geese will remember that your yard is no longer a safe habitat for them. There are also removal services with permits to humanely trap and relocate the geese on your property.
How to get rid of goose poop
If you’re encountering a goose poop problem on your property, it's important to address the problem early on so that it doesn't grow into a larger issue. One solution is to hire a professional company like DoodyCalls that specializes in goose poop removal for communities, residences, and business properties. Our trained technicians can take care of the problem for you so you don't have to deal with it yourself! *Check with your local DoodyCalls location to see if they offer this special service.
Dealing with goose poop on your property can be a nuisance, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. By following these tips and strategies, you can take control of the situation and maintain a clean and safe environment for yourself, your family, and your pets. Remember to prioritize safety and health when dealing with goose droppings and seek professional help when necessary. With a little effort and know-how, you can say goodbye to goose poop for good!