We often get many calls about seagulls throughout the summer, so here are a few answers to regular questions…
What should I do if the bird is injured?
Call the JSPCA for advice on 01534 724331. The majority of seagulls are born on roof tops and are pushed out of the nest by the adults when large enough to fly, or fall out naturally. When they land, they can get minor injuries to their legs from which they recover. The JSPCA will assess any injured birds and decide whether they need to be collected.
There are adult birds that appear to be attacking a young bird…
These are likely to be the parents who will be trying to encourage it to fly (if old enough) or move it to safety.
There are cats in the area that might attack and kill it…
Seagulls, even fledgling gulls, are substantial birds with strong beaks. If a cat did attempt to attack it, they would probably end up worse off by being attacked by the young bird or the adults protecting it.
What should I do next?
Unless obviously injured, leave the young bird alone and allow the parents to look after it. Do not under any circumstances feed it, give it water or handle it, as this will impact on its ability to survive as a wild bird.
The JSPCA is supposed to help look after the welfare of all animals, so why is nothing being done?
Animal welfare is the concern of the JSPCA and whilst we will always attend to injured or sick birds, we believe leaving an uninjured wild bird alone gives it the best chance of surviving to live the life it is designed to live. In addition, we are required to comply by the law in dealing with protected wild animals.
