Town Using Falconry to Deter Nuisance Geese

For the next several weeks, the Town of Saugeen Shores will be using birds of prey tethered to perches to deter nuisance geese activity at the Port Elgin Harbour as part of a pilot project.

“We are always looking to employ more effective methods of humanely tackling the over-abundant goose activity along our waterfront,” said Mayor Charbonneau. “We are looking to do everything we can to reduce the many environmental and health and safety consequences that nuisance geese can have for humans, pets and surrounding wildlife.”

The Town has contracted Imperial Falconry Services Inc. (IFSI) - a locally licensed and insured wildlife control company - for the pilot project.

These birds will solely serve as visual deterrent.  Their visual presence will create a high-stress environment compelling nuisance geese to seek out more hospitable areas away from the harbour, beaches and parks. As the birds of prey will be tethered to perches, they will be unable to pursue any wildlife, ensuring a risk-free approach.

The public is welcome to observe the birds of prey, but we kindly ask that you not interrupt them while they are working.

Projects such as this reflect our commitment to enhancing the beauty of the Town’s environment through the preservation of community green spaces, as outlined in Direction 11 of the Town’s Strategic Plan.