I very much enjoy the Canada Geese, who summer in Maine – especially the babies. In spring and early summer, Hannah and I will venture out in search of goslings.

It’s a bit of a different scenario at Milbridge Commons Wellness Park. WHRL, in collaboration with Maine Coast Heritage Trust, helped to install this park in our community. The geese have used this spot for years, but now that we have gardens and an excellent walking trail, they are not so welcome. Sad for the geese, yes. But a beautiful walking trail littered with goose poo is not good.

So we’ve experimented with these rotating dog silhouettes that move in the wind. Our caretaker moves them now and again to keep the geese on their toes. They seem to be having some impact.

And then there are the days when I stop by to empty the donation box or go for a stroll and find them. I think they’re used to me chasing them off. They see me coming and take off in flight.

And if they don’t, I might run at them and flap my arms in the air like a crazy woman.

And they usually take off for more peaceful grounds.

This day there was a second gaggle grazing beyond the gardens.

Of course, I paused in my chase long enough to catch some photos.

Their initial flight is very uncoordinated.

Yet after a moment or two they fall into unison.

There’s something wistful about seeing them fly off in formation in the fall—the sound of their honking in flight tugs at something inside me.