Plans to control the growing population of feral geese at Grouville Marsh through egg-addling have been given the green light.
Planning permission has been granted for the egg-addling of feral greylag geese nests in two fields near La Cache des Prés in Grouville.
Egg-addling is a wildlife management technique used to control overabundant bird populations. It involves coating eggs with oil, shaking them, or removing them within 14 days of incubation to prevent embryos from developing – preventing them from hatching.
In the planning officer’s accompanying report, the marsh is described as “extremely valuable in our island context”, noting that it is one of only a small number of low-lying marshes in Jersey and supports wetland habitats identified as a key priority in the island’s Biodiversity Strategy.
The application was made by the government’s Department of Biosecurity, with the landowner’s permission, and includes egg-addling and drone surveys to monitor the birds.
The report states that “large numbers of these feral geese are recognised as having a negative impact on the important features of the site”, as well as a “potential impact on public safety”.
Planning officers concluded that controlling the geese is consistent with the reasons for the site’s special designation and that the proposal “demonstrates a clear understanding of the site’s special scientific interest and the measures required to safeguard its integrity”.
Permission for the use of egg-addling has been granted for a temporary three-year period and is subject to strict conditions.
The work must be carried out in accordance with approved method statements dated 18 February 2026, including detailed plans for egg-addling and unmanned aerial vehicle surveys.
The decision notice adds that if activities risk affecting other protected species, additional licences must be obtained before work begins.