Fun with Fauna (or beware of the angry goose)

When running and biking (and occasionally swimming) in the Twin Cities, we often encounter wildlife.  It's usually one of the benefits of being out early or late in the day.  Sometimes it's a nuisance (goose poop on the trail).  Other times, it's downright dangerous.

Last spring when I was training for IM CDA, I turned a corner (one that's on the Minneman Triathlon route) and found myself bearing down on a black bear.  Though I wasn't in any real danger, if I had been going faster I might have had to hit the ditch or the bear.  Neither option is very appealing.

I've also been sprayed indirectly by a skunk while doing a 20 mile run before my first marathon. That was about 3 miles in.  The next 17 miles were not all that fun.

This past Sunday was a gorgeous day for a run.  I did a 90 minute run on a paved trail that ran next to a fairly busy road.  Less than ideal but it was where I needed to be to fit the run into my day.  Normally the only danger I would feel would be from inattentive motorists (or more likely cyclists on the trail).

As the trail approached a retention pond I noticed two geese close to the edge of the trail.  One goose was eyeing me warily.  As I got closer I moved to the far edge of the trail.  The goose lowered it's head and started hissing.  That's a lot like a bull in a movie stamping its foot before it charges.  I had visions of getting arrested for drop kicking a 30 pound goose.  I yelled "HEY" which gave it pause as I moved away without getting pecked.  I've seen marks on other runners from geese.

The worst part wast that I was on an out and back so I knew I'd have to cross that grouchy goose on the way back.  Those things smell fear, I swear it.  Fortunately they had moved on.

Surely some of you have had encounters with wildlife.  Share your story as comments below.  Be sure to provide an email address.  I'll contact you about sending you a free TFI running cap.

Be careful out there!