We have a big ol' Toulouse Gander that has paired up with a Canada Goose, the couple are usually at the pond or creek. I've slowly begun to notice that the Great Blue Herons never land at the pond when the Toulouse is there. Just today, I saw a GBH circle the pond, land in a nearby pine, spy the big ol' gander on the island and then leave. The Toulouse is pretty aggressive and I'm wondering if the same factor as to why swans keep herons away is applying here. If so, having one or pair may also be a consideration for some here, especially if you have an island where they can be safe from predators.
(I'm still eagerly awaiting the latest issue of PBM which has the GBH article. Darn. Maybe, Monday.
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