In spring, owners/occupiers should check the roofs of premises regularly for signs of nest building. Property owners can discourage gulls from nesting by erecting deterrent devices on chimney heads and flat roof areas. Deterrent methods include:
- Fitting long spikes to places like chimney stacks
- Fitting short spikes to dormer roofs
- Fitting wires or nets to prevent gulls landing
Gulls can be managed following NatureScot’s gull management guidance. However, if action is required to manage gulls that would otherwise be an offence, such as removing nests and eggs, then a licence to permit this activity must be applied for from NatureScot.
Licensing is a last resort and should only be utilised once all other preventative and deterrent measures have been exhausted.