KEA: Geese are safe, for now

"The U of Idaho geese have been saved from further torment. At least for now. Some perspectives on the whole affair from the KEA Board of Directors who did the saving:

At the end of March, the University of Idaho in Coeur d’Alene installed spikes driven through boards to deter nesting Canada geese. It certainly worked, but it also injured geese that have nested there for years. Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) was called by a concerned individual. A conservation officer quickly responded and suggested that the U of I install screening to prevent birds from contacting the spikes. He also advised them to move an inconveniently located nest of goose eggs to another location.

The screening was put in place incorrectly; up to two inches of the spikes still protruded through and geese continued to land on it and injure themselves. Pressure was applied by Kootenai Environmental Alliance with the assistance of the Coeur d’Alene Audubon Society until on April 16 the spikes were removed and a new, safe deterrent was installed. The University of Idaho achieved its goal and the geese are now safe.

In our view, the situation was mishandled in two ways. First, common sense should tell you not to situate clustered four-inch nails where geese nest, and to immediately remove them when you observe injuries occurring. Unfortunately, it is not illegal to use spikes, but it is cruel and dangerous. Second, the International Migratory Bird Treaty Act makes it illegal to disturb the completed nest of any native bird without a federal permit. IDFG should have known this and not advised the University of Idaho to move the nest elsewhere. Common sense was not exercised, and IDFG, we presume in ignorance, recommended an illegal action.

This raises a larger issue about our relationship with wildlife. We value and enjoy it. Problems, though, sometimes arise when humans and wildlife interact. People inevitably prevail, sometimes by using inappropriate methods. How should problems of this nature be addressed and resolved? In our view, people and institutions like the University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene should solve conflicts in humane ways that do not harm wildlife unnecessarily. Moreover, IDFG needs to know and respond appropriately to the federal wildlife protection laws (e.g., the Migratory Bird Treaty Act) that apply in our state."

Source: Kootenai Environmental Alliance