Safe Handling and Disposal of Dead Geese

As previously posted, we have received reports of dead Canada geese along the lake and shoreline. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has advised that Avian Influenza (bird flu) is the likely cause and has provided guidance to help prevent further spread.

If you find a dead goose on your property, ODNR recommends:

• Wear disposable medical gloves.
• Double-bag the carcass in plastic bags, sealing tightly.
• Dispose of it in your municipal trash or you may use the RRA or Village’s dumpsters (for dead geese only).
• Remove gloves and wash hands thoroughly with germicidal soap (hand sanitizer alone is not sufficient). Masks are recommended.

If you are unable or uncomfortable handling removal yourself, you may contact Matt Staley of Lakeshore Pest Control (440-218-0279) or another handyman of your choosing to remove the bird at your expense.

To help discourage geese from lingering:

• Please temporarily discontinue use of bird feeders and bird baths in order to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. All birdfeeders and baths should be cleaned regularly with bleach.
• Residents may also use non-harmful hazing methods, such as green laser pointers used safely at dawn or dusk to encourage geese to move along. These can be purchased on Amazon (search “green laser pointer 532nm low power”), Home Depot or Lowe’s, or other local outdoor stores (check hunting or camping gear sections). Aim the light at surfaces near geese, not their eyes.

If you find dead hawks, eagles, ducks, or other wildlife, please report it to the RRA’s Maintenance Director Randy Ruebel at 440-563-9364 so ODNR can be notified.

The RRA maintenance staff will remove dead birds on association properties, including RL lots and beaches.

Thank you for helping keep our community, lake, and wildlife safe.