Canada geese management criticized in South Portland and Scarborough

In South Portland and Scarborough, instances of Canada geese being removed and killed have drawn criticism. While these birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, permits can be obtained to allow lethal control, even for issues such as waste accumulation.

Critics argue that lethal methods used by private exterminators or the USDA Wildlife Services are inexcusable when non-lethal alternatives exist. Suggested methods for managing goose populations include habitat modification, feeding bans, mechanical scare devices, the use of Border Collies, and maintaining tall grasses to deter flocks.