Geese, Ducks or Swans Nesting Nearby? See How to be a Good Neighbor

Spring can bring flowers and maybe a few other surprises to your property as geese, ducks and swans are all finding places to nest. Learn what to do and what not to do if geese, ducks or swans are nesting nearby.

Whether it's the first time you've had visitors in the spring or if they are annual visitors, it's good to know what to do and expect on a daily basis and under special circumstances.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has tips for those who find nesting ducks, geese or swans.

FEMALE MALLARD DUCKS

• Mallard ducks often build nests in landscaping, gardens or other unlikely places. If you do come across a duck’s next, simply leave it alone. If the eggs hatch, the mother will lead her ducklings to the nearest body of water, often the day they hatch.

CANADA GEESE

• Canada geese sometimes build nests near houses or in parks, often near water. Like mallards, geese will lead their young to water soon after hatching. Because adult geese can be protective of nests and young, they may chase people or animals away by hissing and running or flying toward the intruder. If possible, avoid the nesting area. If you must go near the area, carry an umbrella and gently scare the bird away by opening and closing the umbrella.

MUTE SWANS

• Mute swans also can be protective. As with Canada geese, give the swan family ample room. Try not to walk or boat near the family to avoid conflicts. Nests built in your yard already may have baby birds just starting to outgrow them. It’s common to find birds on the ground after a first attempt at flight. If you find one, don’t touch it. The parents will continue to care for it, even on the ground. One exception: If you find a sparsely feathered chick on the ground, it may have accidentally fallen from the nest before it is ready to fly. If you know where the nest is, return the chick only if you can do so safely.

Enjoy spring and enjoy the wildlife that it brings.