100 Geese Leave Pickering Pickering, ON, June 29, 2010 - As part of its ongoing approach to goose control, last week Toronto & Region Conservation (TRCA) rounded up 100 Canada Geese in the City of Pickering and relocated them to an approved host location. The round up was timed with the birds moulting, so that they could not fly away as they were being corralled. This was done early in the morning when the temperatures were cooler and with fewer people in the park, thereby reducing stress to the birds. The geese were gently placed into pens and relocated using a climate controlled transport trailer. “Many municipalities have conducted relocations over the past five years and TRCA has been performing Canada Goose Relocation Programs with the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) for a number of years,” said Danny Moro, Project Manager for Toronto and Region Conservation. “There is no guarantee that the relocated geese will not fly back. CWS data shows that 15 per cent of the relocated birds return to their original area.” Since 2004, the City of Pickering has undertaken a number of programs to reduce the negative impact that large geese populations have on green spaces, especially around the waterfront. “By oiling eggs, using dogs and birds of prey to scare geese, planting vegetation in strategic locations, erecting fences, posting educational signs about not feeding geese, distributing educational brochures, and experimenting with grape seed extract spray, the City has minimized the impact. The numbers are encouraging, it appears that the amount of geese within the City is lower than in previous years,” said Michelle Pongracz, Coordinator, Environmental Awareness Programs. “As a result of our concerted and comprehensive approach to goose control, Pickering has qualified for the CWS goose relocation program for a third consecutive year,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. “Having an overabundance of geese can result in turf problems, water quality issues, and potential health risks associated with goose waste. I am pleased that we are employing this humane and effective method to deal with this issue. For more information about Pickering’s goose control program, or to obtain goose control tips for residents, please visit www.sustainablepickering.com -30- As the gateway city to the east GTA, Pickering (population 94,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. Pickering is an affluent community that is steeped in history, natural beauty and small town charm with all the amenities and services that a big city has to offer. The City of Pickering is considered a municipal leader in fiscal management, service delivery, sustainability and the environment; and offers a wealth of sports, leisure and recreation opportunities to its residents. Pickering has been recognized by Profit magazine as one of the ten best cities in Canada for growth companies and received the 2008 FCM-CH2M Hill Sustainable Community Planning Award. Media Contact: |
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