WARNING: Caution urged due to 'extremely aggressive' seagulls

A warning has been issued about "extremely aggressive" seagulls in the lead up to summer and the traditional nesting season. 

Residents in coastal urban areas have been warned to be particularly vigilant as increased gull activity at this time can lead to potential interactions between the public and these birds.

However, seagulls are not confined to coastal areas and as far inland as Midlands counties as well. 

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, has urged the public and businesses to be cautious with gulls as summer approaches. 

Late spring and early summer witness heightened gull activity as they generally nest and lay eggs in April and May. During this time these birds can become extremely aggressive and protective of their nests, eggs, and young chicks, as they search for food for their young.

Gull droppings (also known as guano) also present a hazard as they can contain bacteria including E. coli and Salmonella. This can lead to the spread of infection through surface contamination or inhaling bacteria from dried droppings.

The nests and roosting sites of birds also attract several pest insects such as bird mites, textile beetles, and fleas, so the presence of gulls at a home or business premises can bring about infestations from other unwanted visitors.

Rentokil employs several different safe and eco-friendly methods in order to help protect premises from gulls, including the installation of bird spikes and bird netting. Another solution offered by Rentokil, as part of an overall treatment strategy, is the Rentokil Intelligent Bird Scaring (RIBS) device. This innovative technology offers an effective and sustainable approach to bird deterrence without causing harm to the birds. 

The RIBS device is designed to guard organisations 24/7 and can be controlled and monitored remotely via a tablet or smartphone app. It has an intelligent built-in system that recognises different bird species and identifies the best scare tool from a broad range to deter each of them.

Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager with Rentokil said: "Gulls can pose a significant nuisance for homeowners and businesses during the summer, particularly for those located in coastal areas. It's crucial to approach them with caution as they are likely to be very protective of their young and will be busy scavenging for food".

You can find further information on gulls and pest birds on Rentokil’s website.

There are many steps you can take yourself to prevent the presence of gulls at your home or business, such as:

• Removing any food sources for gulls around your premises.
• Removing access to nesting sites, for instance, by putting barriers over window ledges, can also be an effective bird deterrent.
• Home or business owners should also make sure bin lids are secure and rubbish bags are not left in the open – gulls have sharp beaks that will make short work of bin bags.

Another option to consider would be the use of a fake decoy bird of prey to help deter the presence of gulls.

Rentokil controls gull species in accordance with the EU Birds Directive and the Irish bird derogations and uses non-lethal methods to control all other species of birds if they become public health pests.