Geese Protection in Springfield, Ohio: What You Need to Know

Geese, with their distinct honking calls and V-shaped flight formations, are a common sight in Springfield, Ohio, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons. But are these birds protected in the city? The answer lies in understanding the local laws and regulations that govern the treatment of geese in Springfield.

Springfield, like many cities in the United States, is guided by federal and state laws that protect migratory birds, including geese. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, for instance, makes it illegal to take, possess, import, export, transport, sell, purchase, barter, or offer for sale, purchase, or barter any native bird, or their parts, nests, or eggs, except under the terms of a valid permit.

Local Laws and Regulations

In addition to federal laws, Springfield has its own set of regulations that govern the treatment of geese within city limits. The Springfield City Code, for example, prohibits the harassment, harm, or killing of geese without a permit issued by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

However, there are exceptions to this rule. Geese can be humanely removed or controlled if they pose a threat to public safety, property, or natural resources. This is often the case in areas where geese congregate in large numbers, such as parks, golf courses, and airports.

Humane Geese Control Methods

When geese need to be controlled or removed, Springfield employs humane methods approved by the ODNR. These include habitat modification, such as creating barriers to prevent geese from nesting or feeding in certain areas, and harassment techniques like using dogs or noisemakers to scare geese away.

Another method is the use of trained border collies, which are known for their ability to herd livestock. These dogs can be used to chase geese away from problem areas without causing them harm. The city may also use egg addling, a process where eggs are coated with a substance that prevents them from hatching, to reduce the local goose population over time.

Responsible Pet Ownership

While geese are protected by law, it's important to note that pets, particularly dogs, are not. Geese may sometimes perceive dogs as a threat and can become aggressive in defense of their nests or goslings. To prevent conflicts, it's crucial to keep pets on a leash and under control when in areas where geese are present.

Moreover, it's always a good idea to carry a stick or noisemaker when walking your dog in areas with geese to deter any potential aggression. If a goose does attack, it's best to try to scare it away without harming it, as harming a goose without a permit is illegal.

Education and Coexistence

Understanding geese behavior and their needs can help Springfield residents coexist peacefully with these birds. Geese are social animals that live in family groups, and they return to the same nesting sites year after year. This is why you might see the same geese in your neighborhood or local park each spring.

To minimize conflicts with geese, it's important to keep your distance from their nests and goslings, especially during the nesting season (March to August). You can also help keep your property goose-free by removing any sources of food or water that might attract them, such as bird feeders or standing water.

Reporting Geese Issues

If you have a geese issue that you can't resolve on your own, you can contact the Springfield Division of Environmental Services for assistance. They can provide guidance on humane geese control methods and help connect you with resources to address your specific situation.

You can also report geese-related concerns to the ODNR Division of Wildlife. They can provide information on local geese populations and help ensure that any control efforts are carried out in accordance with state and federal laws.

In Springfield, geese are indeed protected, and their welfare is taken into consideration in the city's management strategies. By understanding and following local laws and regulations, and by practicing responsible pet ownership and coexistence, Springfield residents can help ensure that geese continue to thrive in the city while minimizing conflicts with humans.