By Gionna Bean, Opinion Editor
Geese behind St Joe’s Hall – Photo by Zoebelle Bean
A family of geese living in the pond by the Albertus Science Hall have been causing trouble for students on campus. These feathered menaces seem to have taken it upon themselves to terrorize innocent passersby who are just trying to survive their daily trek to class.
Students have been fairly understanding about the waterfowl-takeover. Junior J.R. Sanden recalled a goose flapping its wings at him as he walked past the pond near Albertus. “It’s nature,” Sanden said. “The geese are just trying to protect their nest. They’re not evil or anything.”
Male geese, also known as ganders, are known to exhibit aggressive behavior, particularly during the breeding season when they are protecting their nests. This aggression can include hissing, chasing, and flapping their wings at perceived threats. Students who unintentionally come too close to a nest while walking to class may provoke such a response, as the geese interpret their presence as a danger to their eggs or mate.
Junior Taylor Moss has crossed paths a few times with a male goose near the science building, who hissed at her each time. She figures he’s just trying to guard the nest.
Moss gives her advice for dealing with the aggressors. “You don’t need to be afraid,” Moss said. “Just stand your ground. Make yourself seem bigger. Do not run away, or they will chase you.”
Geese in front of Holmdene – Photo by Ashlyn Armock
Although the geese have caused a slight disruption to campus life, they will not be leaving any time soon. Geese mothers typically sit on their nests for 25 to 30 days to incubate their eggs. This will bring something that some students might find more appealing than the aggressive parents: baby goslings. In the meantime, students will have to tread with caution near Albertus.
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