Identification:
Sea Gulls,also known as gulls are "robust birds with webbed feet,
long wings and a slightly hooked beak." All gulls have exceptional
flying ability. Sometimes gulls will swim and even dive underwater.
"Adult gulls are white, with varying patterns of gray and black over
the back, wings, and head. The young are usually grey and take a few
years to receive their white feathers. Both male and female gulls are
similar in appearance.
Habitat:
Gulls are most commonly found wherever an abundent food and water source exists.
General Biology:
"Most gulls nest in colonies on sand and gravel covered shorelines and
islands." Gulls build their nests on the ground and lay 3 to 5 eggs at
a time.
Damage:
"Gulls cause damage to agricultural crops and threaten human safety at
and near airports." Gulls are involved with more collisions than any
other bird. Their nesting and roosting sites also allow for the
transmission of common bird diseases, and ectoparasites. Gulls are a
nuiscance to people around areas where a lot of garbage or food waste
are present.
Legal Status:
"Gulls are classified as a migratory species and are protected by
federal law, in most cases state and local laws also protect gulls.
Consult with the local officials prior to the eradication of the
gulls."
Damage Prevention:
Areas with open garbage depositors should be controled. Eliminate all
possible food and water sources. Exclusionary and ledge barriers
should be applied to nesting and/or roosting sites.
Acknowledgement:
Courtesy of The Wildlife Damage Handbook
Methods of Treatment: