During a visit to Wichita, Kansas, a 6-year-old girl was unexpectedly attacked by a goose near the intersection of Waterman and Main streets.
The incident occurred while the young visitor and her mother were walking back to their hotel. The goose’s aggressive behavior left the child with a black eye but no serious injuries.
Details of the Incident
The mother and daughter, from North Carolina, were in Wichita to attend the NCAA tournament. As they walked near the aforementioned intersection, they were suddenly confronted by two geese.
The geese charged, causing the mother to fall and the child to be struck. The child recounted, “There was two geese and I fell when they smashed me, then they smacked me again and I ran down the hill.”
Understanding Goose Behavior
The incident coincided with the geese’s mating season, which spans from February to late April. During this period, geese become more territorial and protective of their nesting areas.
Dr. Jon Beckmann, Assistant Director of Wildlife Research for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), explains that geese may exhibit increased aggression to defend their territory and mates.
Safety Recommendations
- Maintain Distance: Keep a respectful distance from geese, especially during mating season.
- Avoid Provocation: Do not approach or attempt to feed wild geese, as this can lead to aggressive behavior.
- Stay Alert: Be mindful of your surroundings when in areas known to have geese, particularly near their nesting sites.
While geese are a common sight in Wichita, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals, especially during their mating season.
Visitors and residents alike should exercise caution and respect their space to prevent incidents like the one involving the young visitor.
