Historically, wild geese have formed an important part of Scotland's natural heritage.
Following a period of decline in the 1950s-70s, goose numbers have increased in Scotland and in recent decades the recovery of certain goose populations has caused agricultural damage to crops in some areas.
As a result many farmers and crofters affected by large numbers of grazing geese regard them as agricultural pests.
A national policy framework for goose management has been in place in Scotland since 2000 to help balance agricultural and conservation interests.