Experts Warn of Increased Gull Attacks Amidst Public 'Demonization'

Wildlife rescue experts are reporting a significant increase in deliberate attacks against gulls, citing a trend of public "demonization" fueled by social media. New Arc Wildlife Rescue in Aberdeenshire has responded to more than 350 incidents this year involving the protected birds, with reports including gulls being shot, deliberately run over by cars, and nesting chicks being thrown from roofs.

Approximately 280 of these incidents involved herring gulls, a species frequently perceived as a nuisance in coastal areas. Paul Reynolds, co-manager at New Arc Wildlife Rescue, stated that his organization receives constant reports of people intentionally harming gulls, including confirmed instances of air weapon use and physical assaults in the streets.

These attacks come at a time when efforts are being made to improve human-gull relations. In Eyemouth, a "gull ranger" has been employed to mediate conflicts, a position established after numerous reports of people being attacked by the birds, including seven child victims in August 2024.

Reynolds suggested that negative online discourse is encouraging harmful behavior towards gulls, creating a societal norm where the birds are viewed as pests and vermin, thereby justifying negative actions. He noted that only about half of the gulls admitted to the New Arc center survive, often with wing injuries sustained from attacks, being trapped, or entanglement in netting.

Videos and photos of distressed gulls being shared online for "entertainment" exacerbate the problem, according to Reynolds. He emphasized that the conflict arises because human activity has encroached upon the gulls' natural habitats and food sources. The birds are drawn to urban areas by the availability of food from people, gardens, and landfills.

Contrary to the perception that gull problems are worsening in urban environments, Reynolds pointed to data indicating a 40% decline in herring gull populations over recent decades. He believes much of the public outcry is exaggerated, based on isolated incidents rather than a broader trend. He advised that residents in areas with gulls can minimize conflict by securing bins and "gull-proofing" their properties.