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Most people will acknowledge gulls as an integral part of the
seaside and coastal environment. However, it is apparent that more
and more gulls are moving into built up areas to nest.
Gulls are very resourceful and highly intelligent creatures.
They are also very social and often form large colonies. While
there are many species of Gull, only herring gulls and lesser
black-backed gulls nest in suburban areas in any significant
number. Some people find gulls can cause nuisance through noise,
mess and damage by picking at roofing materials or blocking gutters
with nests. Gulls can also be aggressive if they feel that they or
their young are under threat, or if their nest is disturbed.
Gulls are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. This
makes it illegal to intentionally injure or kill any gull, or to
take, damage or destroy an active nest or its contents. However,
the law recognises that in some circumstances control may be
necessary. Action can be taken to prevent the spread of disease, to
ensure public health and safety or to prevent serious damage to
agriculture. Any action taken must be in accordance with the terms
of a General Licence issued by Natural England.
Further information can be found on the
general licences page on Natural England website. Under
European legislation, there is a requirement to demonstrate that
there is a likelihood of serious damage before any action is taken
to remove birds. European legislation also requires non-lethal
measures to be considered. Nuisance (such as noise) or damage to
property are not legitimate reasons to kill gulls.
Discouraging gulls can be very difficult. You can help by not
actively feeding gulls and by using physical barriers to prevent
nesting. For specific advice you will need to contact a specialist
gull proofing company.
The problem of urban gulls was considered by Area South
Committee on 1st July 2009. The committee resolved to set up
a working group, including local residents and ward
members, to look at practical control options. For more
details, please go to agendas and minutes page.
Further information can be found from the
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
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