This was talked about last year, the draft document suggested that egg treatments and nest removals would still be allowed. The video link was obviously scottish so different rules will probably apply anyway. I think Eek has to document his seagull control already. Still worrying though if we lose another control option with this growing urban pest.
Funny, I was going to post re this subject yesterday but time ran out. There has been a media article stating "Herring gulls now as protected as capercailie" and "untouchable" and "on RSPB protected list." I spoke to SNH (Scottish Natural History) yesterday, who inform me (as suspected) that nothing has changed re the Scottish general licence status. Yes herring have moved onto red list as opposed to amber as previously. Obviously you must comply with you licence terms 100% when carrying out any form of interference or control, but for the future it DOES NOT mean there will be an automatic removal of herring gulls from the general licence. We simply do not know. I spoke with the media concerned and their head of programmes is contacting me to discuss. However if you lok at the RSPB website re herring gulls and control methods, the advice given is very sensible and totally within the guidelines we work to. Well done to them for that. Our problem in Scotland is that the general public have been given total assurance that herrings are totally protected. The problem of explaining to general public the legal remit before this article was difficult enough. Now it has just affirmed the "fact" that herrings are untouchable.
Herring Gulls Now on RSPB 'Red List'
Posted - 31 Jul 2009 : 09:55:33
