Key Features of Gulls
There are five commonly occuring species of gull which commonly occur in England. They are:
- Greater Black-Backed (Larus marinus)
- Lesser Black-Backed (Larus fuscus)
- Herring Gull (Larus argentatus)
- Black-Headed Gull
- Common Gull Kittiwake
Biology
Outside of the breeding season, gulls often roost in huge numbers on large inland bodies of water such as reservoirs or flooded gravel pits. This is particularly true in the case of Inland gulls as they are largely dependent on domestic refuse for food.
Herring gulls and Lesser Black-Backed gulls have changed their behaviour over the last few years and are now seen as significant pests as they are now regularly nesting on buildings. When this happens heavy fouling may occur on buildings used by gulls. They also cause substantial levels of damage to roofs by pecking, their nests can block drainage channels and chimneys and during the breeding season, they display increasingly aggressive behaviour which can result in attacks on nearby humans.
Their feeding habits may also include taking small birds and small mammals for food.
There is a distinct breeding season in Northern Europe for gulls which takes place between May and August. The Herring Gull will begin breeding when they reach the age of 5 years old and will have a lifespan of up to 25 years. On average they will lay two eggs per season but if for any reason the eggs are removed they have the capability to relay several times in that season.
Once the gulls have established a breeding site, they will return to it again and again, year after year to use their nests which are usually contructed alongside other gulls in colonies.
The numbers of breeding pairs on roofs in the UK is increasing at a significant rate.
Control
Reducing problem gull populations and the prevention of problem flocks from settling can be achieved by several methods including point prevention, net prevention and spring wire systems.
There is strict legislation in place in England which dictates how you may address each of the fore-mentioned species of gulls. Gull/infestations can be addressed in order;
- To preserve public health or public safety
- To prevent serious damage or disease
- To conserve flora and fauna including wild birds
- To preserve air safety
- To preserve public health or public safety in food premises
