The Great Michigan Goose Census: How Many Honkers Can One State Hold?
Have you ever been strolling through a park in Michigan, minding your own business, when suddenly a squadron of geese decides your picnic blanket is the perfect runway for their next landing? Yeah, us too. Those feathered friends (or feathered foes, depending on your perspective) seem to be everywhere in the Mitten State. But just how many geese are we talking about here?
Geese on the Rise: More Honks, More Problems?
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Canada goose population has been on a bit of a rollercoaster ride. Back in 2019, estimates suggested there were around 240,000 of these honking high-occupancy vehicles gracing Michigan's lakes and lawns. But hold your bread crumbs! A more recent survey showed a dip to around 200,000. Does this mean we can all finally relax and enjoy a goose-free picnic? Not quite.
Here's the thing: milder winters thanks to climate change mean more geese are choosing to stick around Michigan year-round. So, while the overall numbers might be down, the geese we do have are causing more concentrated chaos. More geese in parks means more mess, more turf wars over prime real estate (your perfectly manicured lawn), and of course, the ever-present threat of a goose-related ankle attack.
So, How Many Geese Are There Really?
This is the million-dollar question (or maybe the million-goose question?). The truth is, it's tough to get an exact count. Geese are migratory birds, so their numbers constantly fluctuate. They also like to spend their time in all sorts of sneaky goose hideouts – hiding amongst reeds, chilling on sandbars, or just loafing around in the middle of a lake – making a headcount a real challenge.
But hey, that doesn't mean we can't guesstimate! Based on past surveys and anecdotal evidence (you know, that time you got stuck behind a gaggle of geese crossing the road), it's safe to say there are still a whole lot of geese in Michigan. Probably enough to fill a few stadiums, staff a small orchestra (with their honking!), or create a living sculpture garden entirely out of geese (though we wouldn't recommend that last one).
FAQ: How to Deal with Michigan's Geese?
Okay, so the goose population is significant. Now what? Here are some quick tips for navigating life amongst Michigan's honkers:
How to Avoid Getting Pooped On: This age-old question has no easy answer. Maybe wear a helmet? Seriously though, try to avoid areas with a lot of geese, and if you see them approaching, make a detour.
How to Get Geese Out of Your Yard: There are various humane hazing techniques – try things like loud noises, water sprayers, or even scarecrows (though a particularly determined goose might just see this as a new friend).
How to Appreciate Geese (Yes, Really): Listen, we get it. Geese can be a nuisance. But they're also kind of majestic creatures, with their impressive wingspans and family-oriented ways (just ignore the occasional hissing fight).
How to Report a Goose Problem: If you're having major goose issues, contact your local wildlife agency. They might have some additional advice or be able to help with goose relocation efforts.
How to Make Friends with a Goose (Probably Not Recommended): We wouldn't recommend this one. Geese are wild animals, and trying to befriend one could end badly (for you). Just admire them from afar.
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
