– shooting seagulls and destroying nests
– people harming seagulls and nests.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Authorities in North Wales have issued a warning after receiving “numerous reports” of seagulls being deliberately shot along the coast. North Wales Police have emphasized that it is illegal to harm or kill seagulls without a proper licence, following incidents in Denbighshire and Abergele.
Additionally, the use of an air rifle in these circumstances could potentially lead to a firearms offence, the police force stated. In some cases, nets intended to capture the birds have also been destroyed.
Despite being considered a nuisance by some, the population of seagulls, particularly herring gulls, is actually on the decline. Herring gulls, which are commonly referred to as seagulls, have been included in a protected list since 2009 due to their decreasing numbers.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, all wild birds in the UK, including seagulls, are safeguarded. It is illegal to harm their nests or steal their eggs under this legislation.
A recent study revealed that herring gulls have experienced a significant drop in their population between 2002 and 2021. More than 51,000 pairs of herring gulls nesting in natural habitats, rather than urban areas, were lost during this period, resulting in a 41% decline in the overall population.
Rebecca Machin, a representative from the animal charity RSPCA, highlighted that herring gulls are a species of “conversation concern” in the UK. She emphasized the importance of treating these intelligent birds with respect, as they form strong social bonds with each other.
It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the legal protections in place for seagulls and other wildlife, and to refrain from engaging in harmful actions that could further endanger these vulnerable species.
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– seagull shooting and nest destruction
– seagull hunting and nest destruction.
