Canadian Geese
Canada geese are large birds weighing 6 to 24 pounds. They have a black head and neck with a white patch on either side of the head. The back is brownish, and the breast and belly are brownish-white. Both sexes look similar with females being somewhat smaller than males. Goslings (young geese) are yellow with gray-green or olive colored feathers on the back and top of the head.
Geese As Nuisance
Canada geese, like all waterfowl, are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Illinois Wildlife Code. It is illegal to kill or remove geese or destroy nests or eggs without a permit from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The Lake Devonshire HOA has a permit for egg removal. If you need assistance with a nest please contact us. Please refrain from feeding the Canada Geese on the lake. Although they are a protected species, they can be a health problem and a pest to the residents. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reports that each goose deposits one-half to one pound of feces per day around the lake. They recommend that people wash their hands thoroughly after boating or fishing on the lake. Parents should also educate their children that they should wash their hands thoroughly after playing along the edge of the lake. Swimming is not permitted in the lake. |
More Information on Canadian Geese, their Habitat and the Behavior
To learn more about Canadian Geese and the issues surrounding their management, please visit the University of Illinois Extension website.
To learn more about Canadian Geese and the issues surrounding their management, please visit the University of Illinois Extension website.