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Gulls

Residents urged to take care against gulls nesting in Aberdeen

People are being urged to take measures to avoid nuisance from gulls and damage to buildings as peak nesting time nears.  

Gulls tend to arrive in Aberdeen to nest and raise their chicks between April and September, however an increasing number choose to remain in the city all year round.  

Aggression from gulls can increase during this time, with parents often swooping and diving at anyone who approaches the nest or gets too close to a chick.  

Residents are advised to not drop litter or food scraps, avoid feeding the gulls as this can encourage them to congregate, not to overfill bins, and to feed any small garden birds via bird feeders and other appropriate purpose-built feeders.  

Those concerned about gulls nesting on their buildings are encouraged to use deterrent methods including fitting long or short spikes to chimney stacks and dormer roofs, and fitting wires/nets to prevent any gulls from landing.  

The council has no statutory powers or duty to deal with gulls, although officers can investigate complaints and provide advice where possible.  

Gulls are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it illegal to capture, injure or destroy any wild bird, or interfere with its nest or eggs.  

More information can be found via our website. 

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