THERE has been an 'explosion' in the number of Canada Geese in the Lake District, leading to them becoming a 'pest', a resident has claimed.

Stephen Melaneffy took a photo of the birds gathering on The Glebe, Bowness.

He said the seagulls and the geese have become a 'nuisance' in the area. 

"Hopefully the authorities will acknowledge the problem and maybe take same action," he said. 

Canada Geese were introduced to the UK from North America in the 17th centuryCanada Geese were introduced to the UK from North America in the 17th century (Image: Pixabay)

A spokesperson from the Lake District National Park Authority said: "The authority manages Canada Geese populations on our property, which includes some of the islands on Windermere.

"This management follows the conclusions drawn in the recent RSPCA-commissioned reports that recommend continued egg control, but not lethal control of Canada Geese.

"As long as resources allow us, we will continue to undertake this annual management of Canada Geese on Windermere. We would encourage other landowners around Windermere to do the same." 

According to the Wildlife Trusts, the bird is the UK's largest goose.

They were introduced from North America around 300 years ago, originally in St James's Park, London. They spread across the land after the Second World War and are now only not found in the north of Scotland.