Scottish Seabird Centre advocates for endangered seabird species ahead of Scottish Government’s gull summit

Next week, Minister for Agriculture, Jim Fairlie MSP, will host a summit to discuss the issues caused by urban gull popuations in some areas of Scotland. The summit will bring together representatives from NatureScot, community councils, businesses, public health bodies and conservation groups.

One of the seabird species most commonly found in Scotland’s towns and cities are herring gulls. Traditionally, herring gulls nest on cliffs and remote islands, but loss of habitat and reduction in food sources have led to these adaptable seabirds seeking alternative urban nesting sites.

Herring gulls are such a familiar sight that people may not realise how endangered they are. Herring gulls are one of 10 seabird species in Scotland on the UK Red list of serious conservation concern.

Emily Burton, Senior Conservation Officer for the Scottish Seabird Centre will be attending the summit. Ahead of the summit, she said:

“Scotland is home to some incredible and iconic marine wildlife, and supports internationally important seabird populations. However, most seabird species, including many gulls, are facing worrying declines. Their populations have been driven down by a range of pressures like climate change, unsustainable fishing practices, and loss of nesting habitat; and, in recent years, some gull species have increasingly moved into urban areas.

“One of the most common urban gulls are herring gulls. There is so much to love about herring gulls; they are large, inquisitive and clever seabirds, but their bravado is often what gets them into trouble. “Our government and councils have a responsibility to help us to live in harmony with wildlife, including urban gulls; and the good news is that we know how to do it. Key to success is avoiding conflict in the first place. That means not feeding gulls, keeping the streets clean and installing gull-proof bins, for example. “We will be attending the summit next week to make the case for co-existence with urban gulls. We will advocate for long-term solutions that will help curb unwanted gull behaviour without further endangering these special seabirds.”

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