The UK is known as a nation of animal-lovers, and we take particular care in looking after our birdlife. Wild birds and their eggs are protected by law, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
The cheerful sounds of birdsong delight us and the sight of a flock of thousands of birds swirling through the sky as one in a murmuration is an amazing phenomenon to behold.
Sometimes, though, birds aren’t quite so appealing. And some are more troublesome than others. Yes, seagulls, we’re looking at you!
Why gulls have become a widespread nuisance
Seagulls have become a nationwide problem.
Gulls in their natural habitat of coastal cliffs, sand dunes, and offshore islands cause problems for holidaymakers and day-trippers on our beaches.
Other gulls make themselves a nuisance after migrating inland.
Many seagulls have moved into more central areas and learned to forage for food around urban streets and on landfill sites.
It’s a lot safer for them. They don’t have to worry about their coastline predators, including seals and sharks who’re always on the lookout for their next gull dinner bobbing about on the waves.
Problems seagulls cause us
Seagulls are adept scavengers and can be aggressive, persistent and opportunistic.
They swoop on us to snatch chips, sandwiches and other tasty treats right of our hand. And once they take a liking to your food, they’ll keep coming back for more.
Gulls also return to the same nesting site year after year – the last thing you need if they’ve taken a shine to your roof. Seagulls are incredibly noisy, even at night and during the early hours of the morning, making an unbearable racket that can cause many a sleepless night.
Gulls are also very protective. If you get too close to them during the April-July nesting season, they may think their young are being threatened and attack you. The same goes for your children and pets.
Other concerns about seagulls include:
- Mess from droppings landing on people, gardens, and clothes on washing lines.
- Damage to property when they nest on roofs.
- Noise from gulls’ heavy footfalls on a roof.
- Nesting materials blocking flues and preventing ventilation of gas fumes.
Professional seagull control for homes and businesses
Like all wild birds, seagulls and their nests and eggs are protected by law, and can only be removed in exceptional circumstances. Gull control, therefore, focuses on preventive measures.
The best way for householders and businesses to keep seagulls away from their property is with a professional bird-proofing programme with deterrent devices such as nets, wires or spikes.
Operating out of the coastal areas of Southampton, Ringwood, Christchurch and Lymington, Pests, Birds and Bugs Ltd knows all about the problems seagulls cause for Hampshire and Dorset homeowners and businesses. And we know the most effective solutions.
Call us on 07388 892414 or contact us online for a free quote on keeping your property free from gulls. We can also help if you have a problem with pigeons or any other types of birds.