SEAGULL FACTS & IDENTIFICATION

Seagulls are fascinating creatures often found in coastal areas but also seen inland, especially around large bodies of water. Seagulls are highly adaptable birds known for their intelligence and opportunistic feeding habits.

SEAGULLS IN WISCONSIN

With its vast lakes and waterways, Wisconsin is home to several gull species. Seagulls are a common sight, particularly around Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. While seagulls may seem harmless, they can become a nuisance, especially when they gather in large numbers or form colonies near residential or commercial areas.

WHAT DO SEAGULLS LOOK LIKE?

Seagulls are typically medium to large birds that are ground-nesting carnivores. They are usually gray or white and have black markings on their heads or wings. They tend to have a deafening wail or squawk. They range in size from the little gull, which weighs a mere 4 ounces, to the great black-backed gull, which weighs over 3 and a half pounds. These birds spend most of their time in large groups along the coastline. They are a subset of a long-winged swimming bird, with 45 species of gulls. These birds are relatively intelligent and resourceful, often carrying mussels and other mollusks high into the air so that they can be dropped onto rocks to be broken, and the soft meat inside can be consumed. Seagulls are excellent swimmers equally comfortable in the water and on land. They tend to be nuisances because they are scavenging birds that will eat pretty much anything, from dead fish to garbage to insects or field mice.

SIGNS OF A SEAGULL INFESTATION

While a few seagulls may not cause concern, many can indicate an infestation. Here are some signs:

Nesting Sites: Seagulls often build nests on flat rooftops, chimneys, and other elevated structures.
Noise: A seagull colony is noisy, especially during the breeding season when the birds protect their nests.
Droppings: Seagulls produce a large amount of waste, which can be corrosive and unsightly, especially on cars, buildings, and sidewalks.
Aggressive Behavior: Seagulls can become aggressive during nesting season, swooping down on people or pets to protect their young.

HABITAT, DIET, LIFE CYCLE & BEHAVIORS

WHERE DO SEAGULLS LIVE?

Seagulls are commonly associated with coastal regions, where they are often seen flying over saltwater bodies. However, many seagull species have adapted to live inland, particularly near large lakes, rivers, and urban areas. In Wisconsin, seagulls are frequently found near the Great Lakes, where they take advantage of the abundant food sources and suitable nesting sites.

Seagulls prefer nesting in colonies, often choosing flat, open areas such as beaches, islands, or rooftops. These colonies can vary in size, with some hosting hundreds or thousands of birds. The choice of nesting site is influenced by the availability of food and the level of disturbance from humans or predators.

DIET

Seagulls are omnivorous and highly opportunistic feeders. Their varied diet includes fish, insects, small mammals, and the eggs of other birds. Seagulls are also known for scavenging, often feeding on human waste, discarded food, and even roadkill. This opportunistic feeding behavior is one of the reasons seagulls thrive in urban environments, where food sources are plentiful.

The diet of a seagull can vary depending on the species and the environment. For instance, Herring Gulls are known to feed on fish and marine invertebrates, while Ring-billed Gulls might consume more terrestrial food items. Seagulls have a specialized gland above their eyes that helps them excrete the excess salt they ingest from eating marine prey, allowing them to thrive in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

LIFE CYCLE

Seagulls have a relatively long life cycle compared to other birds. They reach sexual maturity at about three to five years of age. The breeding season typically starts in the spring, with seagulls gathering in large colonies to nest. The female lays two to three eggs, which both parents take turns to incubate over three to four weeks.

Once the eggs hatch, the chicks are cared for by both parents and remain in the nest for about five to six weeks. During this time, the chicks are vulnerable to predators and require constant care. After fledging, the young gulls form nursery flocks, where they learn essential survival skills before becoming fully independent.

Seagulls can live for over 20 years in the wild, although many do not reach this age due to predation, environmental hazards, and human activities.

BEHAVIORS

Seagulls are known for their social behaviors and are often seen in large groups. They communicate using a variety of calls and are highly territorial, especially during the breeding season. Seagulls are also intelligent birds, capable of using tools and problem-solving to access food.

One notable behavior is their tendency to follow fishing boats or hang around ports and harbors, where food is more likely to be discarded. Seagulls are also known to drop hard-shelled prey, such as clams or mussels, from a height to break them open on rocks or pavement, showcasing their problem-solving abilities.

ARE SEAGULLS DANGEROUS?

These birds can be a real nuisance along a coastal area, especially at the harbor or pier, along dump sites, and where garbage piles up. Flocks of gulls often can create hazards to low-flying aircraft, especially when in close proximity to airports. Their droppings containing uric acid can cause structural damage if allowed to build up on a rooftop or other area where these birds loiter. Their droppings can also cause serious health risks for people.

While seagulls are not inherently dangerous, they can pose risks, particularly in large numbers. Seagulls are known to become aggressive if they feel threatened, especially when protecting their nests or young. This aggression can lead to attacks on humans or pets, which, while usually not harmful, can be startling and potentially cause injuries if a person falls or reacts suddenly.

Seagulls can also be a nuisance due to their loud calls and the mess they create with their droppings. Their droppings can carry diseases and parasites, which can be transmitted to humans, especially in areas where food is prepared or consumed.

HOW TO GET RID OF SEAGULLS?

Managing seagulls, especially in areas where they have become a nuisance, requires a combination of strategies. Here are some effective methods to get rid of seagulls:

Exclusion: Physical barriers such as nets, spikes, and wires can prevent seagulls from landing or nesting on buildings. These measures are particularly effective for rooftops and ledges.
Deterrents: Visual and auditory deterrents, such as predator decoys, reflective objects, and sound devices, can scare seagulls away from specific areas. However, seagulls may eventually become accustomed to these, so they should be combined with other methods.
Habitat Modification: Reducing access to food sources is crucial. This can include securing garbage bins, cleaning up food scraps, and avoiding feeding seagulls. Removing standing water can also help, as seagulls need access to water for drinking and bathing.
Egg and Nest Removal: In some cases, removing nests and eggs can help reduce the seagull population. This should be done carefully, and in some areas, permits may be required due to the legal protections for certain bird species.

Controlling these birds can be very difficult, so our services may include a combination of products and techniques. Corrective landscaping, barriers, and exclusion methods may all be used to rid your property of these annoying and potentially damaging birds.

SEAGULL PREVENTION TIPS

Preventing seagulls is often easier than dealing with an infestation. Secure food sources by sealing garbage bins and avoiding feeding them to keep them away. Use physical barriers like nets and spikes on rooftops and ledges and deterrents such as reflective tape and predator decoys. Maintaining cleanliness in food areas and adding netting to ponds or fountains is also important to prevent access.

Preventing seagull issues can be challenging, and our professionals are dedicated to addressing these common pest birds and preventing their return. Many clients opt for year-round service to protect their homes or businesses from pest birds.

NEED HELP WITH SEAGULL CONTROL IN YOUR WISCONSIN HOME?

If seagulls have become a nuisance in your Wisconsin home or business, professional help is just a call away. At Terminix Wil-Kil, we specialize in humane and effective seagull control solutions. Our team of experts will assess your situation and keep your environment safe.