2024 Goose Summary
2024 had an early start with geese in January and February. The latter month was tough due to ice formation in mid February. March and April continued the trend with regular chases up to a dozen. We had an improved dog patrol and an RC boat to help.
In mid May, some goslings were observed on the lake and they were small, so likely hatched nearby. The wet spring made the area very crowded with life. Death was everywhere as the animals fought for territory. A busier year than most.
The summer was goose-free. We had one quick touchdown in August. Geese did not have much activity until the end of November when they began to move around from the cold. An early December day saw 90, very unusual. Ice on and off in December.
2023 Goose Summary
2023 was a pretty standard year for goose management. There was light activity for most of the spring with occasional pairs trying to establish. Once the weeds filled in, the geese came to eat. We peaked around 2 dozen for a couple of weeks, but once the weeds were knocked down, the geese left. We did not get goslings.
The summer and fall were almost completely goose free. The year ended with rain and warmth, so the goose population should thrive if the winter stays mild into 2024.
Dog patrols will become more formalized next year. They were effective in helping keep the goose surge to the south end in 2023.
