Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center
Problems associated with a large concentration of Canada geese (Branta canadensis) at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge prompted state and federal wildlife agencies to attempt a 50% reduction of the goose flock during the period 1976-1980. Cultivated foods were removed from the refuge, and water and sanctuary were reduced. Early in the program denial of sanctuary was identified as the critical component of successful flock reduction. Thus disturbance, or "hazing" by airboats, propane exploders, and a combination of the two became the primary techniques. Observations of Canada geese neckbanded at Horicon both within and between years suggested a movement of some birds to Illinois wintering areas during October; a time when, in absence of disturbance, they would likely have remained in Wisconsin. Increased mortality associated with a near doubling of the harvest quota (28,000 - 50,000) from 1976-1978 also appears to have been an important component of flock reduction.