Seagull populations halved
According to UK authorities the Seagull populations have halved in recent years, which has meant that the traditional route of control using Egg & Nest removal, has been restricted.
In 2020 the majority of Egg & Nest removal licence applications were rejected, this left many pest controllers and Clients with their hands tied and ongoing Gull problems on site.
After a review of the process, Licencing Authorities have advised what constitutes a valid reason for granting a Licence, the primary driver being ‘A risk to Public Safety’.
1. How many Gulls do you estimate are on site during the peak season? (May to July) – Simple Estimated number
2. With Public Safety/H&S of Staff/Visitors & Public in mind what problems do the gulls cause on site? – Consider Attacks on staff – Slip Trip Issues- Respiratory issues from Guano/Feathers – failed maintenance tasks as a result of the problems
3. Do you have documented evidence of the Public Safety issues above? – Consider Pictures/CCTV, Accident Book records, Written Complaints or emails to management, Evidence of failed maintenance impact on the safety of site.
4. Has the on-site Gull Problem caused any structural damage? – Consider blocked drainage & water run offs, roof collapse, water ingress leading to other welfare and safety issues maybe electrical or high risk internal situations making office/ occupied areas unusable.
5. Do you have evidence of the damages reported? – Consider Invoices for repairs, Documented staff complaints/emails, internal Safety Audits, Pictures of water ingress and the impact on safety, receipts for repairs.
6. What non-lethal remedial actions have site taken to control the Gull Issues? – Consider deterrents/Proofing/Spikes/Netting, Improved litter discipline, reductions in available food & waste attractive to the Gulls, Audible deterrents, Visual Deterrents.
Pre applications with these essential questions answered will be submitted, the authorities will then provide an indication and guidance on whether an application will be granted or not.
- Gather the reasons for the request
- Provide Evidence of previous issues
- Apply as soon as possible, once the eggs are laid if there is no licence then there is nothing that can be done.
- Consider all non lethal control methods such as Falconry, netting, spikes, audible distress or all of these methods to control your Seagull population.
