Wild geese flood beaches: Citizens in Bosau act against feces alarm!

Wild geese flood beaches: Citizens in Bosau act against feces alarm!

Summer has reached the beautiful beaches and swimming lakes in Schleswig-Holstein, but with it comes an unpleasant problem: wild geese. The legacy of these migratory birds is causing a stir, particularly at the Großer Plöner See and Vierer See. This reports NDR, because in Bosau, an idyllic place in the Ostholstein district, between 300 and 500 wild geese cavort on the beach.

To get rid of the goose droppings, locals organized a beach cleanup on June 28th. Mayor Jens Arendt (CDU) is concerned about the increasing number of wild geese and plans to drive them away with a laser gun. His newest employee, Holger Schwien, is supposed to scare the animals with a laser pointer - an innovative but controversial measure.

Conflicts with wild geese

In Barmstedt, Pinneberg district, a variety of deterrent measures have already been tested, including hunting and noise sources. Even the use of a remote-controlled racing boat led to legal difficulties. The reason for these measures is obvious: wild geese not only pollute beaches, but also parks in Kiel, where they contaminate paths and water facilities.

The situation is becoming increasingly critical for farmers. Over 100 companies in Schleswig-Holstein have already made claims for compensation for damage caused by goose feeding. While some farmers are pushing for an extension of hunting seasons, nature conservation associations such as NABU advise coming to terms with the wild geese. They recommend not feeding the animals to minimize the geese's impact on agriculture. After all, geese are adaptable animals that often prefer fertile meadows and grain fields to more natural habitats.

The role of geese in nature

Wild geese migrate throughout Europe and spend the winter in large communities, often in northern Germany. Their preference for nutritious land causes conflict, especially when they infest freshly sown fields. But how NABU determines, damage can be limited by providing sufficient rest areas for the geese. It is a balancing act between the need to provide habitat for wildlife and at the same time protect the interests of agriculture.

Conscious management of wild geese could also minimize the disturbance that many geese experience due to human activities. Research shows that rest periods are important for animals to optimize their energy levels and increase their chances of survival.

Here’s to good neighborliness between humans and animals

The conflicts caused by the return of wild geese are part of a larger issue: the relationship between humans and wildlife. The return of large species, such as the wild goose, often leads to tensions and misunderstandings within the population. Many interest groups – from conservation organizations to farmers to hunting groups – face different challenges. Again WWF reports, long-term management plans are needed that are fair to both people and animals.

In summary, the wild goose is a fascinating but also conflict-ridden creature. Treating these animals respectfully and realistically could help promote harmonious coexistence and ultimately find a solution for everyone involved.