SURFSIDE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — Surfside Beach Mayor Robert Krouse is planning a workshop to inform residents of best — and worse practices — when it comes to encountering Canada geese.
The birds have been a source of discussion in the town for years, as flocks search out safe havens and people willing to feed them.
Once the session is planned, Krouse plans to invite wildlife officials to better help people understand healthy interactions with the animals.
“Some geese are hurt by people. Some people run over them. It’s really sad, I think,” resident Cybele Soucy said. “Most people in Surfside Beach are loving them and they want to protect them.”
A 2020 Surfside Beach Police Department Facebook post went viral as leaders pleaded with people to control their tempers after reports of online harassment and even breach of peace charges emerged as a result of geese gossip and treatment.
Forcibly removing or injuring the birds can be a serious crime, as they’re federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.