(WWJ) Are the geese growing aggressive? Turkeys giving you a tough time?
While many people enjoy watching wildlife near their homes, experts say when wild animals get too comfortable near humans, it can cause problems.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, conflicts with geese, deer, turkey, coyotes and bears are most common in the spring and summertime in our state.
With this time mind, the DNR has releases a rundown of some proactive steps Michiganders can take this spring to help prevent conflicts with wildlife for the rest of the year.
The following information comes from wildlife experts at the DNR:
Geese
The best way to avoid problems with geese and other waterfowl is to act early to make your lawn uninviting. Planting native shrubs along shorelines will act as a natural barrier to prevent waterfowl from reaching your lawn. Let the grass grow long, and don’t fertilize or water it. Use scare tactics to frighten geese away, including loud noisemakers, bird scare balloons, mylar scare tape and plastic flags.
Taking action now is especially important this year because the Canada Goose Round Up and Relocation Program has been paused due to highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild birds in Michigan. If you find an inappropriate nest in your area, contact U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services for removal assistance.
Deer
White-tailed deer can become unwanted guests when feeding from gardens, flower beds and landscaping. Fences or wiring around gardens and plants can protect them from damage. You can also try repellant sprays or planting deer-resistant plants.
Turkeys
Turkeys will eat from bird feeders and young plants and may become aggressive if comfortable in a suburban area. If they become a nuisance, remove all food attractants, and make sure your neighbors do the same. Male turkeys may also be attracted to shiny objects, such as vehicle bumpers and windows they can see their reflection in. Cover or disguise windows and other shiny objects like hubcaps and car paint.
Coyotes
Coyotes will take advantage of the small mammals and birds that bird feeders and gardens often attract. Garbage or pet food that is left out overnight may also draw their attention. If there are coyotes in the area, eliminate food sources and try to scare the coyote by yelling and making loud noises. You can learn more tactics in this video: How To Haze a Nuisance Coyote.
Bears
Black bears live in northern Michigan but are occasionally spotted farther south. Bears have enormous appetites, an excellent sense of smell and can remember the locations of food sources from year to year. Prevent an encounter by removing food sources such as bird feeders, exposed garbage, pet foods and grills with food debris. Apiaries (bee hives), fruit trees and gardens can be protected by electric fencing.
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