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Final Report 7/29/94 <br />ASSESSMENT OF METHYL ANTHRANILATE (ReJeX -iT AG -367m) <br />FOR REDUCING CANADA GOOSE USE OF TURF GRASS AREAS <br />Paul D. Curtis and Astrid S. Jirka, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell <br />University, Ithaca, NY 14853 <br />INTRODUCTION <br />Non - migratory Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) populations have been <br />increasing over the past four decades in many parts of the United 'States. <br />In suburban areas, geese are often found at local parks, on golf. courses, <br />and on private and public lawns. At first they were viewed as a pleasant <br />roadside attraction. However as their numbers increased, they became a <br />major nuisance in sorne situations, primarily as a result of fecal deposits. <br />Feces left by geese lower the aesthetic value of parks, ball fields, and <br />other turfgrass areas, and negatively impact water quality (Conover and <br />Chasko 1985). <br />Many attempts have been made to alleviate conflicts between geese <br />using turf areas near water sources and people. Specific methods include <br />the use of pyrotechnics, traps, and scare devices (USDA 1986, Heinrich and <br />Craven 1990). However, such methods are often costly, not entirely <br />effective, and may have limited public acceptance. The effectiveness of <br />goose alarm and distress calls has also been evaluated, but results were <br />inconclusive (Aguilera et. al. 1991). The use of dogs, in particular border <br />collies, is currently being investigated as another possible alternative for <br />moving geese from specific locations (A. Herriott, Cornell Cooperative <br />Extension, Rockland County, pers. commun.). In addition, public demand has <br />increased for a bird repellent that is effective, economical, and safe for <br />both target and non - target species (Vogt 1992). <br />Thee- purpose-of--this study°•was - -to -test-- the_:repellehf properties of <br />methyl- anthranilate. (MA; ReJeX-IT ° AG- 367117 PMG- Specialties-Inc:, <br />Cincinnati; -OH)- on -a -. populationt .,..ofaocaLurbanizedhCanada- geese. MA is a <br />naturally occurring compound found in plants such as jasmine, concord <br />grapes and orange blossoms (Vogt 1992). It is the raw material used in <br />the production of saccharin, and is contained in some grape- flavored <br />chewing gums at concentrations exceeding 2,200 ppm. While MA tastes <br />sweet to people, it is distasteful to many bird species, and is currently <br />being tested as an oral aversion agent for birds (Avery 1992, Vogt 1992). <br />Page 76 <br />