We need to learn to live with Canada geese | Letter

I have been made aware of several instances of Canada geese being removed and killed in South Portland and Scarborough. The geese are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. However, this protection can be waived by getting a permit that allows the killing — even for the “crime” of pooping.

Killing these birds (either by the USDA Wildlife Services or by a private exterminator) is shameful and inexcusable on several fronts, not least of which is that there are many non-lethal alternatives that may be used to control geese. Some, but not all, include:

• Habitat modification or restoration.
• Ban on feeding.
• Mechanical scare devices such as air horns, flags and other noise makers.
• Large vacuums to clean up the poop.
• Flight turf.
• Flock-free spray.
• Border collies who keep the geese away without harming them.
• Tall grasses; the geese avoid them as they may hide predators.

I wonder if the complaining parties have even tried any of these alternatives, although I think not. I also wonder if they are aware that removing the geese from an area is not a permanent solution — it only creates a space that will eventually be filled with more geese.

We are living in an increasingly violent society where it’s acceptable to kill to address a perceived problem. Let’s do more than pay lip service to our desire to have a more just and compassionate society and speak up for the helpless among us.

Anne Crimaudo
Portland

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Tagged: letter to the editor