Geese are very territorial birds and, frequently, they tend to chase or even attack whoever they identify as invading their area. Although it is quite common for a goose to run after an intruder, it is quite rare for this behavior to lead to a real attack. You can stop the aggression by slowly leaving the animal's territory: slowly back off, trying to stay calm. Do not do anything that will make the situation worse, such as starting to scream or make sudden gestures. If you get injured, get medical help right away so they can treat you as needed.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Get away from the Goose
Step 1. Note the signs that indicate an impending attack
You may have the opportunity to move away before a goose becomes overly aggressive if you can correctly interpret its attack signals: always pay attention to any aggressive behavior when you are near a goose.
- Initially the bird will slightly tilt its head back, which is an indication of an aggressive attitude. If you later see her straighten her neck, the situation will be getting worse.
- When the goose is about to attack, it will move its head upwards and then downwards, in a rhythmic manner.
- These animals, to announce aggressive behavior, may also hiss or squaw quite loudly.
Step 2. Get away before a goose starts chasing you
If you notice the warning signs of an attack, try to leave before the bird decides to run after you; it might even leave you alone, seeing you back off on your own. Slowly reverse gear until you are at a safe distance and the goose has calmed down.
Step 3. Back off slowly if the bird begins to approach aggressively
In case the animal decides to chase you, proceed backwards calmly. Always keep your eyes on the goose and use your peripheral vision to decide where to go. Carefully avoid any obstacles that could trip you, as this could trigger an attack.
Step 4. Stay calm
If you show fear or irritation, the animal could interpret these emotions as signs of your intention to fight: it is strongly recommended to maintain a neutral and calm behavior while walking away from a goose. If you feel that you are losing the necessary tranquility, take deep breaths as you continue to retreat. Always remember that, even if the geese are very territorial, a real attack is still a rare event.
Step 5. Seek medical attention if you have any injuries
Go to a doctor immediately, in case a goose bites you or hits you with its wings. These birds have considerable strength and can cause significant injuries and trauma when they feel provoked - you may even suffer fractures or need stitches in the event of a very violent attack. Go to the nearest ER as soon as possible.
Part 2 of 3: Avoid Making the Situation Worsen
Step 1. Don't assume hostile attitudes
If a goose chases you, you may be tempted to scare it to drive it away: don't do it, because your attempts would only make the bird further nervous.
- Do not yell at the goose: it is better not to say anything and not to provoke it further.
- You should also avoid any kind of gesture aimed at the animal: do not try to kick, do without waving your arms or throwing objects at the bird.
Step 2. Don't turn around
It is very important not to turn your back to the goose until it has stopped chasing you; always keep an eye on it and do not let your guard down. Don't close your eyes and don't turn to leave; always look at the bird until it gives up.
Step 3. Don't rush
In addition to always paying attention to the attitude of the goose, another very important thing is to resist the temptation to run: if you had to do it, you would encourage the animal to continue chasing. Moreover, you would show that you are in the throes of agitation, so the bird could feel further provoked. Even if the goose continues to approach, keep calm and continue walking backwards slowly and with great caution.
Part 3 of 3: Preventing an Attack
Step 1. Don't feed the geese
This behavior could trigger an attack: geese could lose their natural fear of humans if fed too often, or they could become aggressive when they want food and attack those who do not give them.
- If you are in a zoo or a wildlife park, try to convince others to stop feeding the geese as well. You may also want to speak to a manager to strengthen the rules and controls against this behavior.
- Do the same even if you are in a public park; also, if you have young children, educate them to follow your example too.
Step 2. Use barriers if possible
If problem geese are in your yard, think about restricting the space available to them. Small fences will be enough to protect you and your family from potential attacks; if, on the other hand, the dangerous birds are in a public place, contact those responsible and request the installation of the barriers.
Step 3. Inform the proper authorities if the geese become very problematic
It is not always easy to avoid these birds if you are in an area where they are widespread; nevertheless, there are countermeasures that can be useful in minimizing the number of attacks. You can contact the municipal administration directly and report the problem: the Municipality will look for ethical solutions, such as installing adequate fences or using tools that scare and hunt geese, so that they can no longer harm the population.
