Seagulls have long been a source of frustration for residents and visitors in Bath, with many experiencing aggressive behavior and sleepless nights caused by the birds. Recent reports of a man violently attacking baby gulls with an umbrella have sparked concern and highlighted the importance of handling these situations legally and humanely.
Bath is known for its sizeable seagull population, particularly herring gulls, which have adapted to urban environments. Despite their frequent presence, it is illegal to harm gulls, their eggs, or nests without official permission from Natural England. The birds are protected under wildlife conservation laws, making it a crime to intentionally injure or kill them.
The man involved in the recent incident was seen on a city center rooftop trampling young seagulls. Avon and Somerset Police have released his photo and are urging anyone with information to contact them, emphasizing the seriousness of wildlife protection laws.
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Nationally, herring gull numbers are actually declining, and the species is red-listed due to threats like overfishing and habitat loss. Their shift to urban scavenging in places like Bath reflects this challenge. As of 2022, Bath was home to nearly 1,000 breeding pairs.
If you are troubled by gulls, Bath and North East Somerset Council advises reporting problems through their dedicated channel. The council employs a gull officer who can take limited action, but their efforts are restricted by protective regulations. Complaints involving sleep disturbances or health impacts such as exposure to bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and botulism should include detailed information to support possible intervention.
Cllr Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, acknowledges the rising gull numbers and associated issues, emphasizing the council’s commitment to humane management within legal boundaries. She stresses the need for clarity from Natural England regarding the birds’ conservation status to enable more effective and compassionate control measures in the future.
For those dealing with seagull disturbances, the council’s reporting portal is the proper channel to seek help: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/report-problem-urban-gulls