October has been relatively mild and dry across Maryland, and so far we haven't seen the significant arrival of migrating Canada geese we typically expect this time of year. While goose activity has remained fairly quiet in many areas, that could change quickly as we move into November.
After more than two decades of observing Canada goose activity throughout Maryland, we've learned that migration patterns can vary considerably from year to year. Weather conditions farther north play a major role in determining when migrating flocks begin their journey south.
A Delayed Migration Could Mean a More Intense Arrival
When temperatures remain mild in Canada, migrating geese often stay farther north longer than usual. As colder weather eventually arrives, those birds begin moving south in search of open water and available food.
In years when migration gets off to a slow start, we sometimes see a larger concentration of geese arriving over a shorter period, rather than a more gradual movement throughout the fall.
Based on what we've observed this October, we could be looking at a particularly active second half of November. Although there is no way to predict exactly when the migrating flocks will arrive, a quiet October doesn't necessarily mean the remainder of the season will be quiet.
Resident Geese vs. Migratory Geese
It's important to understand the difference between Maryland's resident Canada geese and the migrating flocks that arrive from northern Canada each fall.
Resident Canada geese live in Maryland throughout the year. These are the geese responsible for many of the ongoing problems at office parks, residential communities, commercial properties, and other managed landscapes. When you see a goose from mid March-early October, that is almost certainly a resident goose.
Migratory Canada geese, on the other hand, breed farther north in Canada and travel south during the fall and winter months. Many spend the winter in Maryland before returning north in the spring.
Both resident and migratory Canada geese are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.
While both populations can create problems for property owners, migrating flocks present an additional challenge because they are unfamiliar with individual properties and the deterrent programs already in place.
What This Means for Maryland Properties
As migrating flocks arrive, they begin searching for suitable locations to feed, rest, and spend the night. Open lawns, ponds, parking lots, and nearby agricultural fields can all influence where these geese choose to congregate.
Commercial properties that have experienced relatively little goose activity during October may suddenly see substantial increases as new flocks move into the region.
Unlike resident geese that have become accustomed to our border collies and regular visits, newly arriving migratory flocks have not yet been conditioned to our presence. Establishing that conditioning requires consistent deterrent activity.
Additionally, migrating flocks can rotate through an area throughout the season, meaning new birds may continue arriving even after earlier flocks have moved along.
Looking Ahead
As we move into November, commercial property managers should be prepared for a potentially rapid increase in Canada goose activity, especially if colder weather begins pushing larger numbers of migratory birds south.
At Chesapeake Goose Control, we'll continue monitoring goose movements throughout Maryland and adjusting our deterrent efforts as conditions change.
While the exact timing and intensity of migration are never guaranteed, our experience over the past 24 years has taught us one important lesson: a slow start to fall doesn't necessarily mean a quiet winter.
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The Chesapeake Goose Control Team
