What Can Scare Birds Away From My Property?
Birds settling where they’re not wanted is nothing new. Rooftop pigeons, seagulls pecking at bin bags, starlings gathering noisily in the hedges, sometimes it just
May 27, 2025
Seagulls are a common sight in the UK’s coastal areas and are known for their loud cries and tendency to steal food from unsuspecting beachgoers. However, in recent years, these birds have also started to move into the cities, where they have become a considerable nuisance. Many people are wondering if seagulls are protected in the UK and whether it is illegal to kill them in self-defence. This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about seagulls’ protection, their status as vermin, and the laws surrounding their control in the UK.
Seagulls have been protected under UK law for over 60 years, with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 enshrining their protection. This act made taking or killing any seagull species illegal unless granted a license. The reasons for the protection are that some seagull species, such as the herring gull, are declining in numbers, and the UK has an international obligation to protect these birds. Furthermore, seagulls are considered an essential part of the UK’s natural environment, and their protection is necessary for maintaining biodiversity.
Seagulls are not classified as vermin in the UK, meaning they cannot be controlled using poisons or traps. However, they are considered a nuisance, particularly in urban areas. Seagulls can cause damage to buildings by dislodging roof tiles, and their droppings can cause health hazards. They are also notorious for stealing food, which can be problematic for businesses that serve food outdoors, which is why they can gain a reputation of being dangerous. Some councils have tried to introduce by-laws banning feeding the birds, but this hasn’t proved easy to enforce.
To manage seagull problems in urban areas, councils and authorities may take various measures, including netting or spiking roofs to discourage nesting, enclosing bins to prevent scavenging, or using noise or visual deterrents. These measures can be costly, and sometimes they are only somewhat effective. In some cases, populations of seagulls may be reduced by using birds of prey to discourage them from specific areas. However, this must be done carefully under the guidance of a professional falconer. You can attempt to get rid of or discourage seagulls yourself, but this can prove challenging due to their persistent nature.
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Hawkeye Bird Control provides businesses and homes throughout the UK with bird control services. For help with pigeons, seagulls and other pest birds we are the team to call!
Head Office:
620A Kingston Road
Raynes Park
London
SW20 8DN
Opening Hours:
Mon – Fri: 08:30 – 17:00
Sat & Sun: Closed