Council battles breeding gulls, monitor aggressive birds and nesting

A DRONE-LED aerial survey to map urban gull populations across the region has been launched following a sharp increase in reports of aggressive bird behaviour.

Managed by the Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Environmental Health Team, the project will use drone technology to film town centre rooftops and active nesting sites.

The data will help create a long-term management and conservation strategy for the region. Council officials emphasised that the operation strictly targets avian habitats.

The drones are not equipped or authorised to monitor private citizens or individual properties.

But the question is why do gulls become aggressive?

The spike in bird activity coincides with the peak summer breeding season.

During this time, adult gulls become fiercely protective of their chicks. They view passing pedestrians as immediate threats, leading to territorial dive-bombing and food-snatching in high-traffic public spaces.

To minimize conflict between residents and nesting birds, local authorities have issued a seven-step safety guide for the public.

Retreat calmly: Move away quickly and quietly if you trigger a defensive bird reaction. Avoid chicks: Give a wide berth to young chicks and visible ground nests.

Create a barrier: Hold a bag, umbrella, or jacket above your head if a gull swoops at you. Never feed gulls: Stop feeding the birds to break their association between humans and food.

Cover your meals: Secure all food items when eating outside in urban spaces.

Lock down waste: Use gull-proof public bins and never leave food litter exposed.

Stay vigilant: Scan your surroundings carefully in coastal areas, town centres, and near low roofs.

The local authority thanked the community for their cooperation, stating that the project balances public safety with the protection of local wildlife during a vital time of the year.

After putting up the online post, several local residents from across the region posted their concerns about the gull problems. The council later disabled comments onto the post.