Keeping Gulls Away
The first step to gull management is keeping them away.
Gulls are attracted to food sources and therefore please make sure that litter and food waste are disposed of properly.
Read NatureScot's Advice on Gull Management >>
Gull-proof your property
Gulls flock in colonies and tend to return to the same nesting spots every year. In spring, owners or occupiers should check their roofs regularly for signs of nesting. Once nests have been built, they cannot be removed without a licence. The best time to gull-proof properties is between October and February, as the breeding season is usually between March and September. Property owners can discourage gulls from nesting by erecting wires or nets to chimney heads, flat roof areas and other potential nesting areas.
A competent specialist such as a roofing contractor or pest control company should be able to give you advice.
Private properties can arrange deterrents themselves and seek advice through www.NatureScot 01463 725364. Licences are free through NatureScot, but individuals need to show they have tried other deterrents before applying. Every licence is decided on an individual basis.
The council can provide deterrent spikes free of charge (to residential properties) providing they are installed by an appropriately qualified "Trusted Trader" - Dumfries and Galloway Trusted Traders: powered by ReferenceLine - Once you have engaged with an appropriate Trusted Trader and agreed to their pricing they can contact us to arrange collection of spikes for installation on your property.
You can also use the Trusted Trader (or other qualified contractor) to remove nests and eggs if you have the appropriate licence. If you have a persistent problem, we would recommend that this is done proactively at the start of the breeding season and roofs checked regularly with old nests being removed to discourage returning birds.
If anyone comes across an injured of sick bird please do not touch and contact the SSPCA or a local vet for advice.
Help us make Dumfries and Galloway Gull Proof
We've created new guidance on how you can help discourage gulls from being a nuisance along with a sign you can print to discourage others from feeding the gulls.
Further information
Contact us at gulls@dumgal.gov.uk for further advice
