A Vancouver resident sought help upon discovering a family of geese nesting on his rooftop, a situation not uncommon during this season, according to a local rescue group. The Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. (WRABC) revealed that they are receiving frequent calls concerning these large birds at this time of year and emphasized the importance of early intervention for any geese in need.
The incident involving Cecil Hershler began when a mother goose settled in a vegetable box on the roof of his four-story home in Vancouver approximately two weeks ago. Initially, Hershler didn’t pay much attention to it and continued with his outdoor chores, thinking it wouldn’t cause any trouble.
However, after being advised by some visitors that the goose might be nesting, Hershler contacted WRABC, who instructed him to monitor the mother goose and inform them when the eggs hatched. About a week later, Hershler was greeted by the loud noises of eight goslings and their protective father, who displayed aggressive behavior to keep the offspring safe.
Following another call from Hershler’s wife, rescuers devised a plan to relocate the geese. Linda Bakker, co-executive director of WRABC, explained that after hatching, a nesting goose family usually remains in the nest for about 24 hours before transitioning to find food and water sources. In this case, the rooftop was deemed too high for the goslings to descend safely, prompting the rescue operation.
A volunteer rescuer carefully gathered the goslings into a specialized container and then transported them to Hershler’s driveway. Eventually, the mother and father goose reunited with the goslings, and volunteers guided the whole family to a nearby pond at Jericho Beach Park for their safety.
In situations where geese nest in hazardous locations, only professionals with permits from the Canadian Wildlife Service can facilitate their relocation due to protection laws under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. Bakker noted that while not every nesting goose family requires rescue, early involvement and non-interference, as demonstrated by Hershler, are essential. She advised people who encounter a nesting goose to maintain a safe distance, refrain from disturbing the nest, and seek assistance if needed.
The successful rescue of the goose family highlights the importance of timely intervention and proper handling to ensure the safety and well-being of wildlife in urban environments.
