There are two factions regarding swans chasing geese from a habitat. One faction states that the swans act as a deterrent and the other faction states that swans are useless as the geese get used to them.

Here are the facts:

1. The success for swans removing geese or other waterfowl from the area depends on the swan species, the individual personality (i.e., disposition of the swans), and if the geese are perceived as intruders of the habitat. We know of several habitats that the swans and geese cohabit with no problem.

2. Most states now require permits to possess, maintain and breed feral species such as Black Swans or Mute Swans. You will need to check with your state fish & wildlife commissions to see if you need a permit.

3. If you can maintain swans, you will need to decide if you have predators in your area which can kill the birds as they will not be permitted to fly, meaning they must be pinioned and what measures you will take to ensure their safety and comfort during inclement weather (i.e., pond freezing over, etc.).

4. You must determine if you are going to use both male, both female or male/female swans. Male swan pairs can be more aggressive, but they can also turn on each other. Female swan pairs may not be aggressive enough and may be easily killed by predators because they are not a large in size as the male swans.

If you choose male/female swan pairs, then you must be prepared to provide veterinary medical care such as pinioning, vaccinations, etc. Cygnets must also be placed on another pond when the parents chase them from the original pond once they become juveniles. Since the birds cannot fly, they will need to be placed in a safe location and you may need a permit for the breeding and placement of the cygnets.

Mute swans produce one clutch a year with 1-13 eggs produced and Black Swans produce two clutches (1-8 eggs) per year. The adult swans can live up to 30 years. This is a lot of young swans produced and placed and you will need to continue the placement procedures on a yearly basis.

The bottom line is at what cost are the geese worth removing using swans and is your committment toward this end going to be long term for the swans? If you still decide to use this method or want to give it a try, we would suggest you contact Knox Swans and they may be able to advise you. The Regal Swan