Risk of 'rescuing' young gulls highlighted as charity sees admissions peak
Wildlife rescue organisations are urging kind-hearted members of the public to check advice before attempting to help or “rescue” young gulls, as admissions continue to rise each year - many of which are unnecessary.
The RSPCA, Scottish SPCA and the British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (BWRC) have raised concerns because thousands of gulls are being brought into their care every year - but a number of these are healthy chicks or fledglings that did not require help.
Verity Miles, wildlife rescue expert at the RSPCA, said: “Gulls are such underappreciated animals, so it's amazing so many people want to help them. However, in many cases these birds have not been abandoned, but have left the nest as they learn to fly - this is a normal part of their development.
"Their parents will usually remain nearby and continue to feed and protect them, but sadly many well-meaning passers-by will mistake this for abandonment.”
Wildlife rescue teams are also receiving many thousands of calls from concerned members of the public, particularly during the peak breeding season.
Sean Meechan, Wildlife Operations Lead from the Scottish SPCA, said: “Our rescue officers attend thousands of gull-related calls each year, especially in early summer.
"While some situations do require intervention, the majority involve healthy birds that are best left alone.”
Experts from the RSPCA, SSPCA and BWRC warn that unnecessary intervention can actually do more harm than good.
Paul Reynolds, BWRC chairperson, added: “Taking a healthy chick or fledgling away from their parents can cause stress to the young bird and significantly reduce their chance of survival.
“Not only that, but it is also an offence to disturb, or take gulls or eggs from their nests, unless absolutely necessary, so you may inadvertently be breaking the law by bringing in gulls that are not sick or injured.”
The increased handling and higher number of birds in care can also raise the risk of disease transmission, such as avian influenza.
Sean Meechan, from the SSPCA added: “The Scottish Government advises against handling gulls.
“If you’re concerned, the best course of action is to contact us and we can assess the situation.”
More information can be found on SSPCA’s website.