Egyptian geese in Esslingen: Pretty birds with a big problem!

Egyptian geese in Esslingen: Pretty birds with a big problem!

The Egyptian goose is a growing problem in Esslingen, especially in city parks and at the Neckar outdoor swimming pool. These birds, originally native to Africa, have been kept as ornamental poultry in Europe since the 18th century and are now also very popular in German cities. However, they come with some challenges. The city has therefore launched a “goose management” program to keep the birds away from popular haunts, reports Esslinger newspaper.

The key problems include the Egyptian geese's aggressiveness and loudness, as well as the enormous amount of droppings they leave behind - up to a kilogram per day. This can cause considerable inconvenience, especially in leisure areas such as outdoor swimming pools. Fortunately, the feces are not considered dangerous to humans because most pathogens are harmless. Nevertheless, the accumulation of feces is perceived as a nuisance, highlighting the need for measures to control the population.

Measures to contain the Egyptian goose population

The city administration has developed various approaches to deal with the situation. This includes identifying popular Egyptian goose resting places and design elements that could make them unattractive. Possible measures range from creating knee-high flowering meadows to targeted frightening methods or even removing individual animals. However, catching or killing wild birds can be punished with high fines in Baden-Württemberg.

Another topic being discussed is the potential hunting of the Egyptian goose. This is basically possible as long as the animals are used; Egyptian geese are edible and their meat is said to be typical of duck meat. Nevertheless, opinions are divided about the necessity and impact of widespread hunting. According to that National Geographic Nature conservation associations such as NABU advocate alternative approaches, such as deterrence and feeding bans, instead of a drastic reduction in stocks.

Climatic conditions and distribution

The Egyptian goose belongs to the so-called neozoa, a group of alien species whose numbers in Germany have increased steadily over the last 170 years. There are currently around 900 established neobiota species, of which around 320 are vertebrates, as the information from Federal Agency for Nature Conservation shows. This increase is directly related to global trade and increasing mobility. Future climatic changes could further favor the spread of these species as existing climatic barriers weaken.

In Esslingen, the issue of Egyptian geese continues to be monitored and addressed through appropriate management strategies. The balance between nature conservation and the needs of citizens remains a challenge that must be mastered in the future.