The Case Against Killing: Why Science Doesn’t Support Lethal Goose Management in Michigan
This in-depth position paper from Advocates for Michigan Wildlife challenges the DNR’s approval of permits to euthanize Canada geese based on alleged health threats. Backed by extensive peer-reviewed research, the report reveals there is no scientific evidence that geese transmit harmful diseases like E. coli to humans. It argues that without a clear, science-based cause-and-effect relationship, the DNR cannot justify lethal actions under its statutory duty to use sound scientific management. Instead, the report urges the use of proven nonlethal methods, like habitat modification, to address conflicts with geese while protecting public health and wildlife.
Resident Canada geese, located in Michigan, are a migratory bird species protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Therefore, the State should utilize non-lethal goose management tools to the extent they deem appropriate in an effort to minimize lethal take
The DNR must ensure that the lethal taking, by gassing, of Canada geese is a LAST RESORT measure by requiring an applicant for a permit to capture and euthanize geese to satisfy reporting procedures that show alternative nonlethal measures have been used but have been unsuccessful to reduce goose conflicts.