Keeping seagulls away has become harder over the years, especially for those who live in coastal towns. Seagulls are not only noisy birds but they leave foul-smelling droppings and are not afraid to attack people.
If you have never had food snatched from you by these creatures, you are one of the lucky ones. Seagulls tend to get aggressive if they fail to gain access to food, swooping over kids’ heads and taking off with their fries. They do not only snatch food but small animals and pets as well.
The main thing that regularly attracts seagulls to where humans reside is litter and waste. As they like scavenging for food, it’s not advised to feed them or to leave food out. Find a way to scare them off without hurting them, e.g. by using decoys, spinners, water blasters, or sound emitters.
These birds not only pose a physical threat to humans but where seagulls are, health risks are bound to surface. Microbiologists have indicated that seagulls carry various types of diseases and bacteria like Salmonella and E. Coli, including antibiotic-resistant strains.
The likelihood of more pests and bugs nesting in your home is higher as gulls’ nests create a breeding ground for them. Not only will you have to deal with more pests, but seagulls also cause damage to roofing and exteriors as their droppings contain acids.
The best time to deal with your seagull problem is before it even starts — ideally before nesting and breeding season. Identify their nesting spots and use safe deterrents. Always check local bird protection laws before attempting removal.
Seal bins tightly and never leave food scraps outside. Feeding encourages seagulls to return in greater numbers and makes them more aggressive over time.
Training a medium-to-large dog breed to chase gulls can discourage them. Avoid small breeds like Chihuahuas, as seagulls have been known to attack small pets.
Low-voltage shock tapes provide a harmless deterrent, teaching gulls to avoid perching on protected surfaces. Easy-to-install kits are widely available.
Owls and hawks are natural predators. Use realistic decoys, but move them frequently so gulls don’t realize they are fake.
Water guns and motion-activated sprayers can deter seagulls in a safe, fun way. This method is especially effective in yards or outdoor dining spaces.
Seagulls prefer rooftops and chimneys. Bird spikes and nets prevent landing and nesting, protecting your property from droppings and damage.
Ultrasonic bird repellents emit high-frequency sounds gulls dislike. Some are silent to humans, while others are audible — so check before installing near neighbors.
Shiny, rotating spinners powered by wind or solar energy deter seagulls. Homemade versions from plastic bags can work but may cause littering.
Some studies suggest seagulls avoid red surfaces. Try red panels or reflective tape on fences and roofs to deter them.
Essential oils, cayenne pepper, and garlic may repel gulls, though they may bother neighbors and leave lingering odors. Use with caution.
Seagulls are intelligent and persistent, so no single method may completely eliminate them. Large colonies may require professional bird control services to ensure safety and compliance with wildlife laws.