Seagulls bombarding urban homes

Posted by G R Cotterill on Tuesday, 6th January 2009, 10:55

Let me say at the off that I am not anti-bird, but the daily build-up of more and more of these flying ‘Lancaster Bombers’ has now got to the point where something must be done to dissuade those kindly folk who, with best intentions, feed these pests daily.

The mess on windows, cars, roofs and washing drying outdoors is now reaching proportions where action is required. But what? To some extent they are protected – nests, young birds etc. People have tried ‘Bird Scarers’ but this has ended up driving locals mad and they have turned their venom on to people trying to scare off the seagulls. Shooting is not an option in residential areas, and I am not sure if it is legal anywhere. What are the restrictions, if any?

So it seems all we can do is to cajole and attempt to persuade those of our neighbours who feel it is a duty to feed these large predator birds to stop doing so – and if they must feed birds at this crucial time of the year, then at least keep it down to providing food for the smaller varieties, which incidentally flee for cover when these flying waste machines are attracted into garden areas.

In a feeble attempt to try and stay at one with nature I am happy to share my world with the rest of the creatures that have established themselves on our planet; BUT each must co-habit peacefully; seagulls belong at sea, or on cliff faces.

I note there have been several attempts to raise this issue by our IOW Councillor, to no avail!

Anyone else have any ideas on how to deal with this spreading problem?

If so contact the Parish Council and Roger of course.

G R Cotterill. Northwood