Canada geese may be more noticeable around neighborhoods, parks, ponds, and other public spaces in Georgia over the next few weeks as the birds go through their summer molting season.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division, Canada geese typically replace their flight feathers from late June into early July. During that time, the birds are temporarily unable to fly.

Wildlife officials say the flightless period only lasts a few weeks, and property owners are encouraged to be patient until the geese regain their ability to fly and move on.

For communities across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, that could mean more geese staying close to ponds, lawns, and shoreline areas through part of the summer.

DNR officials say harassment methods, such as noise makers, reflective tape, or trained herding dogs, may be useful during other times of the year, but may not work while geese are molting and unable to leave the area.

After molting season, property owners dealing with continued goose problems can try repellents, physical barriers, or contact the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division for information about special permits.

Officials remind the public that Canada geese are protected under state and federal law. It is illegal to hunt, kill, sell, purchase, or possess Canada geese except under Georgia’s migratory bird regulations.