Don't mess with the nest: Goose expert responds to viral Boston goose attack video

A viral video shows a goose attacking a dog in Boston, prompting claims of unprovoked aggression. A goose researcher explains the behavior as defensive instinct during spring nesting and mating season. Geese are more alert and aggressive near goslings and may interpret nearby dogs as dangers even if the dog appears to keep a reasonable distance. The researcher notes that geese often show warning behaviors before escalating, including curving the neck into an “S” shape, bobbing the head, hissing, and flapping wings to appear larger. Urban geese are generally accustomed to humans, but people are encouraged to stay aware during spring encounters.

"A local goose researcher says the bird was only acting out of instinct to protect its young during nesting season. The video, posted May 13, has garnered more than 6.7 million views and more than 925,700 likes as of Tuesday morning. Some viewers commented that the dog appeared to be “minding its business” before the goose charged. But according to Mikaela Higgs, a recent Boston University graduate who studied geese-human interactions in urban environments, the goose's behavior was defensive rather than unprovoked."

"Spring marks nesting and mating season for geese, making them more alert and aggressive toward perceived threats, especially near goslings. Even though the dog and its owner appeared to keep a “reasonable distance” in the video, Higgs said the goose likely still viewed them as a danger. “It did seem like the dog was sort of curious about the geese and their young,” she said. “[The geese] were doing what any protective parent would do when another creature is coming at their children.”"

"Higgs said geese often display warning signs before becoming aggressive. Defensive geese may curve their necks into an “S” shape, bob their heads, hiss, or flap their wings to appear larger - behaviors visible in the viral clip. While goose encounters in cities can be startling, Higgs said urban geese are generally accustomed to humans. Still, she encourages people, especially dog owners, to stay aware of their surroundings during the spring season and gi"

Read at Boston.com