On 23 September Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie chaired a summit in Inverness bringing together local councillors, housing associations, business representatives, waste management organisations and community groups, scientific experts and NatureScot.
The summit was called to address growing concerns about gull behaviour in urban areas, where populations are increasing, even as coastal numbers decline.
He will also confirm that NatureScot will be investing £100,000 in councils to support efforts to limit the damage caused by gulls, ahead of next year’s breeding season. Deterrents can include measures such as the use of lasers, noise, roof spikes and netting to prevent nesting.
Mr Fairlie said:
“The summit allows us to share practical solutions, learn from real-world examples and identify gaps in current policies to develop a coordinated approach. We know that effective gull management often requires a range of solutions, particularly around litter management which provides food sources.
“Where public safety is at risk, NatureScot can issue control licences. Our focus now is on how we can prevent these issues from arising next year, with extra support provided and I look forward to seeing the projects that this additional funding will help.
“By working directly with affected communities and expert advisors we can ensure solutions are tailored to local circumstances with effective deterrents that make urban areas less attractive to gulls.”
Professor Colin Galbraith, NatureScot Chair, said:
“The evidence is clear that our gull populations are in decline. In some areas, gulls have adapted to the pressures they face – from climate change to food shortages and avian flu – by moving into our towns and cities in search of easier food and safe nest sites. We understand that some urban areas are experiencing issues with gulls and that this can have an impact on people’s lives, especially during the nesting season.
“While the debate on urban gulls has long centred on control through licensing, and that will undoubtably remain part of the picture, it is important at the same time to look at the underlying reasons for any problems, including the availability of food and nest sites for the gulls in urban settings.
“This funding will support local authorities to develop proactive and collaborative plans to manage gulls in a way that balances their conservation with any control activities.”
