Proof Your Roof: B&NES Council encourages people to install seagull deterrents
The council wants people to protect their property from the birds before the breeding season starts
Households and businesses in Bath and North East Somerset that are experiencing issues caused by seagulls are being updated on new ways to tackle the problem.
Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Council will be carrying out a ‘seagull count’ this month to define how many seagulls there are in the area and where they are nesting.
“The last gull count was carried out in 2018. We have commissioned another count this year to improve our understanding of the colonies that affect B&NES and help us target our gull deterrents effectively” said Tim Ball, local councillor.
As protected animals, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is illegal to disturb the birds during their nesting period.
The seagull nesting season runs from May until late summer.
Usually, their nests can only be removed from roofs once the nests have been abandoned.
However, the council has secured an organisational licence from Natural England which allows removal of nests and eggs during the breeding season in case the public’s safety is at risk.
Local councils launched a campaign to encourage people to proof their roof.
According to the highlights of this campaign, it is essential to use the time when the birds are not nesting and remove the nests, that might be blocking drains or causing other problems, from the roofs.
Tim Ball added: “A key part of deterring the birds is making sure that roofs are less attractive for them to nest on. By ‘proofing your roof’ the gulls are displaced elsewhere and are less likely to cause nuisances such as sleep disturbance and soiling outdoor furniture.”
Highly recommended are also seagull deterrents, that will be offered with a discount for residents of these areas.
“Gulls are a regional issue so we are working with neighbouring local authorities to share information, materials and actions so that we can take a co-ordinated approach,” finished Tim Ball.
You can find more information on how to deal with seagulls here.