Welcome to the Flock: Goose Encounters at Shoal Creek

 

 

Shoal Creek in early fall is a quite beautiful, the leaves are starting to change and there is a low chatter of squirrels, and the unmistakable honk of Canada geese staking their claim along the banks. They’re not just passing through. They’re residents. And like any good neighbor, they expect a little courtesy.

Image of my husband being chased by Canadian geese,


The Incident

My friend, bless him, sincerely believes all wildlife would welcome him with open wings. He approached the geese with the confidence of someone auditioning for a nature documentary. Two geese disagreed. Loudly.

What followed was a block-long chase that ended only when he dove into the car like it was a getaway vehicle. I, meanwhile, stood calmly at a respectful distance. The geese never even glanced at me.

Goose Etiquette 101

Canada geese aren’t aggressive by nature they’re protective. Especially during nesting and molting seasons, they defend their space with precision and persistence. Shoal Creek is part of their seasonal rhythm, and respecting their territory ensures peaceful coexistence.

Here are a few tips for sharing space with geese:

  •  Give them space. Geese are highly territorial, especially near nests or goslings.
  •  Stay slow and predictable. Sudden movements can trigger defensive behavior.
  • Observe, don’t intrude. Use zoom lenses or binoculars instead of stepping into their zone.
  • Don’t feed or approach. It disrupts their natural behavior and can escalate conflict.

For more detailed guidance on living respectfully alongside Canada geese, I recommend this resource from the Humane Society. It covers nesting habits, seasonal behavior, and humane strategies for coexistence.

Closing Note

We still walk Shoal Creek often. My friend now greets the geese from a safe distance, nodding like old acquaintances. And I keep documenting quietly, respectfully, and with a camera that zooms.

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