Seagull activity can become more intense over the summer period, when they nest and raise young. During this period they can become defensive, territorial and aggressive around their nest sites. The gulls can cause damage to buildings and create health and safety risks. Seagulls can spread diseases such as Ornithosis, E Coli and Salmonella, and encourage infestations of insects such as fleas and bird mites. The mess and bird droppings can cause damage to buildings and block drains, chimneys and air vents. The noise of the seagulls can be loud, and the general impression created by a seagull infestation will act as a deterrent to visitors and business clients. As seagulls are protected, it is important to undertake the least invasive measures possible. We can provide advice on what is permissible under current legislation. If all recommended non-invasive measures are in place, we can help with the application for an individual licence to undertake activities such as egg and nest management. Please note that we can only provide this service to business premises. |
Herring gull - Larus argentatus Lesser black-backed gull - Larus fuscus Great black-backed gull - Larus marinus Seagulls are adapted to urban life, particularly in larger or coastal towns. Seagulls are opportunistic scavengers that thrive in the urban environment which provides a year round food supply. Buildings with flat roofs, ledges, chimneys and balconies are all potential nesting sites for the gulls, who can live for over 30 years and may return to their favoured nest site every year. Birds of prey: Flying birds of prey to scare away seagulls is a natural and very effective method. The gulls will believe that there is a predatory threat in the area and will seek an alternative place to settle and nest. The intermittent and frequent presence of a bird of prey is most effective, leading the seagulls to believe that the falcon or hawk now lives in that area. The birds of prey are highly trained, and although they are flying to the falconer's lure and are not hunting, the seagulls will be quickly chased off by the presence of the predator. Bird proofing: Bird proofing takes the form of netting, points and spring wire. Bird proofing is humane and does not harm the birds. Bird proofing is designed to prevent the gulls from landing or roosting on buildings. Bird proofing is individually tailored to each site, and is a professionally fitted to ensure that it is as visually discrete as possible. |