What you need to know for hunting geese

The United States and each individual state have laws and regulations in place when it comes to hunting. Canadian geese are federally protected throughout the year, with exceptions for a few dates. Hunting season for waterfowl in Kentucky is during the month of September and from November to February. You must be registered with the state and attend hunters education courses and you have to carry your hunters education card or hunters education exemption permit at all times.

While hunting geese, there are some safety precautions you must take as Canadian geese are known to get aggressive at times. They are particularly aggressive during their nesting season, which occurs every March through June. Experts advise that you avoid these animals if you can during this time.

For more information on goose control, visit Wildlife Removal Pros.

Hunting Regulations

A person shall not enter upon the lands of another to shoot, hunt, trap, fish or for other wildlife-related recreational purposes without the oral or written permission of the landowner, tenant, or person who has authority to grant permission.

Those who fail to obtain permission are subject to arrest and prosecution.

All hunters, and persons accompanying them, must wear outer garments of hunter orange color visible from all sides on the head, back and chest when hunting during daylight hours for any species during the modern gun, muzzleloader, and youth firearm deer seasons, or a firearm elk or bear season.

Waterfowl and dove hunters are exempt from this requirement. Learn more

Summary: The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has specific rules and regulations in regards to the hunting of Canadian geese. These birds are strictly protected during any time other than within hunting season dates which run during the month of September and also from November-February.

What to do if you come face to face with a goose

Canada geese can be aggressive and territorial, especially during the months of March through June, because it’s nesting season.

“They can bite. The bite isn’t too bad, it’s really the scratching that can inflict the most harm, and they seem to know that,” said Urban Wildlife Biologist Megan Dillon.

Dillon says geese love to nest near ponds, but you can find them in some unusual spots too. Read more

Summary: Canadian geese can sometimes turn aggressive if you invade their space. Many times, they’re working to protect their eggs, especially during nesting season, which is from the months of March to June. Experts say it is best to avoid them completely during this time.