https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/irishpubs-reopeningplans-closed-level3update-food-20628371Irish pubs update: Disease-riddled seagulls enemy number one who could disrupt outdoor reopeningTheir breeding season runs until September when they are most aggressive and likely to harass people too4 COMMENTS
By Aakanksha Surve
09:19, 19 MAY 2021
NEWS
Locals have been urged to be careful once outdoor dining returns as experts have warned of a surge in the number of aggressive seagulls this summer.
Dublin accounts for over 60% of total callouts for seagulls and other pest birds followed by Wicklow (16%) and Kilkenny (16%) so far this year.
The breeding season for gulls runs from April until September, and this is the time of year when they are at their most active.
People have been warned to treat the pest birds with great caution as they tend to be the most hostile in June when the seagull chicks hatch.
Ireland saw a 50% jump in callouts regarding gulls and other pest birds so far this year.
Pest control experts Rentokil is urging people to be wary of them when eating outdoors, in particular, once outdoor dining returns in June, as this is when they are most likely to harass or try to steal food from members of the public and raid waste bins.
Pest bird droppings contain bacteria including E. coli and Salmonella and can lead to the spread of infections through surface contamination, inhaling bacteria from dried droppings, or being transferred by bird mites, which can bite both people and birds.
Additionally, bird mites, textile beetles and fleas are attracted to their nests and roosting sites, so the presence of gulls at a home or business can bring about infestations from these insects.
Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant for Rentokil said: “As we enter the warmer summer period and lockdown restrictions are eased, we encourage members of the public to treat gulls with caution and keep their distance from them where possible.
"This is the period when people and gulls are most likely to cross paths, and it is also when they are at their most aggressive.
A group of Anti-Lockdown protesters clash with Gardai) in Grafton Street, Dublin, during Level 5 Covid-19 lockdown. On Saturday, Fabruary 27, 2021, in Dublin, Ireland.
"To discourage the presence of pest birds at your home or business, it is essential keep any food sources well-hidden and ensure bin lids are secure and rubbish bags are not left in the open.”
