What diseases do geese carry?

Geese might look peaceful as they gather near ponds, yards, and open fields, but their presence can bring hidden health concerns. Their droppings, often left in large amounts, are more than just a nuisance—they can harbor harmful bacteria, parasites, and even viruses.

Understanding the diseases geese carry is the first step to protecting your family, pets, and property. By learning the risks and how they spread, you can take smart steps to stay safe while keeping geese from turning your space into a health hazard.

Can Geese Droppings Make You Sick?

Goose droppings may look harmless on sidewalks, porches, or lawns, but they can contain dangerous microorganisms. When people or pets come into contact with these droppings, they risk exposure to bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria that can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and fever. The problem worsens when droppings contaminate water sources, turning ponds or puddles into breeding grounds for infection.

Children and pets are especially at risk since they are more likely to touch or play in areas with droppings. Even small amounts can lead to illness if tracked into homes or ingested accidentally. Regular cleanup and keeping outdoor areas free from droppings is one of the simplest ways to reduce the chance of getting sick.

What Bacterial Infections Are Linked to Geese?

Geese are known carriers of several bacteria that can cause human illness. E. coli is one of the most common, leading to severe stomach cramps and diarrhea after exposure through contaminated surfaces or water. Salmonella is another serious concern, often causing food poisoning-like symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever when droppings spread to nearby soil or water supplies.

Another bacterial threat is Campylobacter, which spreads easily in environments where geese congregate in large numbers. This infection can lead to diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain, and it’s especially dangerous for people with weakened immune systems. Since these bacteria thrive in moist areas, ponds, puddles, and damp grass frequented by geese can quickly become hotspots for contamination.

Do Geese Carry Parasites?

Yes, geese can spread parasites that cause illness in humans and animals. Two of the most concerning are Giardia and Cryptosporidium, both of which are waterborne parasites that thrive in contaminated lakes, ponds, or even backyard puddles. When swallowed, these parasites can cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, cramps, and dehydration.

The risk increases in areas where geese gather in large flocks since droppings easily wash into water sources. Pets that drink from outdoor water bowls or natural water supplies can also become infected, raising the risk of spreading parasites inside your home. Keeping geese away from shared water areas is one of the most effective ways to reduce parasite exposure.

Can Geese Spread Fungal Diseases?

Geese droppings don’t just contain bacteria and parasites—they can also encourage the growth of fungi. One of the most concerning is Histoplasmosis, a respiratory infection caused by inhaling fungal spores that grow in soil mixed with bird droppings. When droppings dry out and turn to dust, these spores can become airborne and inhaled, posing risks even without direct contact.

For most healthy people, exposure might cause mild flu-like symptoms, but those with weakened immune systems or preexisting conditions can develop serious lung infections. The danger is highest in places where droppings build up over time, such as porches, roofs, or yards where geese frequently gather. Regular cleaning and safe removal of droppings are key steps in preventing fungal-related illness.

What About Viruses from Geese?

While bacterial and parasitic infections are more common, geese can also play a role in spreading viruses. One potential concern is Avian Influenza, which typically affects birds but has rare cases of transmission to humans when close contact with infected droppings or feathers occurs. Though uncommon, it highlights the importance of handling goose infestations carefully.

Geese can also indirectly contribute to West Nile Virus, as their droppings create stagnant water areas where mosquitoes breed. Since mosquitoes are the true carriers of the virus, areas heavily populated with geese can see increased mosquito activity, raising the risk of transmission. Even if viral risks are less frequent than bacterial ones, they still add to the reasons homeowners should manage goose problems promptly.

How Serious Are These Health Risks?

Not every encounter with geese will lead to illness, but the risk grows with repeated exposure to their droppings and contaminated areas. A single goose can produce pounds of waste each week, and when flocks gather, the amount quickly becomes overwhelming, raising the chance of bacteria, parasites, and fungi spreading into the environment. Over time, this creates unsafe conditions for families who use those spaces daily.

Certain groups of people face higher risks than others. Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to infections caused by goose-related diseases. Pets are also at risk, especially if they drink from outdoor water sources contaminated with droppings. Treating geese as harmless backyard visitors overlooks the very real health issues they can cause.

How Can I Protect My Family from Goose-Borne Diseases?

The first step to protection is reducing direct contact with goose droppings and contaminated areas. Avoid letting children or pets play where droppings are present, and always wash hands thoroughly after outdoor activities in goose-heavy spaces. Cleaning up droppings quickly with gloves and disinfectant helps minimize the chance of bacteria or parasites spreading.

It’s also smart to discourage geese from settling near your home in the first place. Removing food sources, blocking access to ponds, and using safe deterrents can limit their presence. If geese continue to return, professional wildlife control services can install long-term solutions to keep them away, reducing both mess and health risks.

When Should You Call a Professional?

If geese are gathering in large numbers or leaving widespread droppings around your yard, it’s a clear sign the problem is too big for DIY methods. Aggressive geese, especially during nesting season, can also pose a safety threat when they begin defending their territory. These situations often require expert handling to prevent injuries and ensure proper cleanup.

Calling a professional wildlife removal service ensures the problem is handled safely and humanely. Experts not only remove or deter the geese but also address contamination by sanitizing affected areas. This reduces the risk of disease spread and keeps the problem from returning, giving homeowners lasting peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Staying Safe Around Geese

Geese may seem like a normal part of the landscape, but their droppings and presence can create serious health risks if left unmanaged. From bacteria and parasites to fungi and even potential viruses, these birds bring more than just noise and mess when they gather around homes and yards. Understanding the risks is the first step to keeping your family and pets safe.

The good news is that you don’t have to face the problem alone. Simple prevention steps help, but when flocks keep returning or contamination becomes overwhelming, professional help is the safest choice. By acting quickly, you can protect your health, restore your property, and keep your outdoor spaces free from the dangers geese leave behind.

Protect Your Home with AAAC Wildlife Removal

Don’t let geese put your family’s health at risk. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we specialize in safe, humane goose control that keeps your property clean and protected. Our team not only removes problem geese but also provides long-term deterrent solutions to stop them from coming back.