gooseherding

Gooseherding refers to the practice of guiding and managing flocks of geese, primarily for the purposes of migration control, conservation, or agricultural protection. This technique is commonly employed in regions where geese, particularly species like the Canadian goose (*Branta canadensis*), have expanded their ranges and become a nuisance due to overpopulation or agricultural damage. Gooseherding involves the use of trained dogs, often of breeds such as Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, or Belgian Malinois, to direct flocks away from undesirable areas like airports, golf courses, or farmland.

The process typically begins with identifying and locating a goose flock, often using visual cues or aerial surveillance. The herding dogs are then released to work in tandem with handlers, who use verbal commands, body language, and the dogs' natural herding instincts to guide the geese. The dogs move in a way that creates pressure on the flock, encouraging the geese to shift direction. This method is non-lethal and aims to relocate geese to more suitable habitats, such as wetlands or protected areas, where they can thrive without causing disruption.

Gooseherding is often used as a complementary strategy alongside other population control measures, such as habitat modification or targeted hunting. While effective, it requires skilled handlers and well-trained dogs to ensure the safety of both the geese and the public. The practice is particularly common in North America, where it has been adopted by wildlife management agencies, airports, and private landowners to mitigate conflicts between geese and human activities.