North Holland launches goose management pilot near Schiphol

The province of North Holland is initiating an accelerated pilot program to manage goose populations near Schiphol Airport. This measure follows two bird strike incidents in February and August that caused significant material damage.

The pilot will take place in a 600-hectare area approximately three kilometers from the airport. Wildlife management units will attempt to disperse geese through traditional methods; however, if these efforts prove insufficient, authorities are permitted to shoot the birds. This action will be coordinated with local farmers and land users and aligns with the approved ‘Faunabeheerplan Ganzen 2025-2031’.

The initiative is part of a broader collaborative strategy involving the national government, Schiphol, and the province to reduce bird strike risks and make the airport's surroundings less attractive to hazardous bird species. A final decision on the long-term plan is expected by the end of 2026.