Geese scare some students – The Famuan

In recent years the serene and picturesque campus of Florida A&M University, known for its lush landscapes and tranquil study spots, has become the backdrop for an unexpected and feisty feud between students and the local goose population. 

With their striking appearance and honking calls, these birds have been part of the campus scenery for as long as anyone can remember. However, their behavior has taken a notably aggressive turn, coinciding with the onset of their nesting season, which unfortunately overlaps with the university’s spring semester.

Iyano Gross, a third-year psychology student, fell victim to an attack on campus. “It came out of nowhere. I nearly thought I was done for,” Gross said. “I ran for my life after it came flying towards me in an aggressive rage.”

As word of the encounter spread, it became clear that this wasn’t an isolated incident. Students across campus began sharing their tales of goose confrontations, ranging from being chased down footpaths to stand-offs outside lecture halls. 

Social media accounts documenting these avian attacks sprang up overnight, blending humor with a touch of wildlife awareness. Many students utilize these accounts to ensure that the student body is aware of what is happening on campus with these so-called attacks. 

Some students, like the geese, aren’t threatening their school safety. Aaron Ford, a second-year theater major, says that he feels safe.

 “Maybe it’s a case-by-case scenario,” Ford said. “All the geese aren’t attacking people. I have never been attacked, and they have never shown their aggressive side towards me.”

Some students say they are scared for their safety, and they want to know some of the ways they can avoid conformation with these animals. 

The questions students ask are: what can be done to ensure the student body feels safe?

Interim Chief of Police John Cotton shared his thoughts on the concern. 

“We plan to initiate a campaign to educate the campus community on how to co-exist peacefully with the geese,” Cotton said. “Workshops on understanding goose behavior, tips on avoiding confrontations which will help to mitigate the encounters in the future.”

Could this possibly work for the students? Students may have to take extra precautionary measures to avoid these attacks in the future. With the soon-to-be-shared safety tips, students will hopefully be able to live peacefully on campus with the wildlife that surrounds them.