Seagulls

Some seagulls are becoming more common in urban areas.

The council does not provide any service in relation to the control, removal or culling of gulls.

Herring gulls are attracted by nesting sites on buildings and by the available food supply. Herring gulls usually build nests in May and lay 2 or 3 eggs.

Do they do any harm?

They tend to nest in colonies and can damage buildings, block chimneys and gutters, create noise and leave a mess from the waste. They may swoop at people to take their food or to protect their young.

What the law says

All gulls and their nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The Act allows for the control of certain birds, including gulls, by authorised persons using certain methods.

The solution

Only licensed contractors should be employed to cull or disturb gulls, for example by removing their nests or eggs.

It is better to prevent gulls from nesting than trying to get rid of them later. Spikes, wires and nets can be used to protect vulnerable parts of the buildings.

Where the nesting site can not be removed there is evidence that putting plastic eggs in place can help. This is because birds will sit on the fake eggs and not produce chicks of their own.

Good waste management will stop gulls finding food.