Areas stripped of native long grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and vegetated banks consist of miles of mowed turf grass and little else. In biological terms, these are degraded landscapes. They mimic the barren conditions where Canada geese historically nest.

Wide open spaces are a welcome mat for geese.

A goose easily navigates riprap.

A clear line of sight allows geese to feel secure.

Feeding violations in Edgewater.

Angel Wing Deformity – Seen in Edgewater Geese

Bread, one of the most common foods given to geese, can cause a range of problems, including a debilitating disease called “angel wing.” Angel wing is a permanent deformity that causes the bird’s wings to twist outward, rather than rest against the body, and renders the goose unable to fly. This in turn leads to exposure to predation and other dangers. Angel wing is caused by diets high in calories, protein, and carbohydrates, and low in vitamins D, E and manganese.