Geese have become part of the fabric of Illinois State’s campus. One temperamental member of the flock, nicknamed “Bruce the Goose,” became (in)famous enough three years ago to be spotlighted on TV-10 News and to get its own Twitter account.
This spring, some Canada geese chose Illinois State’s campus as their nesting ground. The birds transformed plant containers outside of DeGarmo Hall, the Felmley Hall of Science, and the Student Services Building into temporary homes. In response, the University’s Grounds crews erected signs and barriers near the nesting areas since it is against federal and state law to remove the geese once they lay their eggs.
In the video below, Dr. Pirmin Nietlisbach, an assistant professor in the School of Biological Sciences, explains how the once nearly extinct geese have become a common presence in populated areas like Illinois State’s campus.
