With spring approaching, Waitaki District Council and the Department of Conservation are reminding Ōamaru building owners and tenants what they can do ahead of the red-billed gull breeding season.

The nesting gulls can lead to expensive repairs, clogged gutters and can be noisy neighbours for up to five months, but there is still time to make the roof less attractive to the protected gulls as a nesting site.

Once the gulls have begun breeding, it is illegal to remove or disturb them.

According to information on the council website, the birds do not usually use the roof during the day, so if it’s safely accessible, check the roof in the evening or first thing in the morning. Regular human presence may be enough to make the site less attractive to nesting birds. 

Clearing gutters and drains of debris that could be used for nest-building is also encouraged.

Identifying and preventing access to parts of the roof that are attractive to nesting gulls is vital. These include flat ledges, gutters, flat roof surfaces, small walls or parapets that provide shelter from the wind, and high points used as lookouts.

If birds are roosting, but nests do not have any eggs or chicks, it is not too late to take action. 

If possible, make regular roof checks. If there is a sudden increase in gull activity, don’t wait – get up there safely and check it out. You are allowed to remove nesting material that does not contain eggs or chicks.

The maximum penalties for disturbing wildlife are up to two years in prison or a $100,000 fine, or both. 

Ōamaru is a coastal area which means its inhabitants are encroaching on the gulls’ natural habitat, as much as they are on ours.

The council can provide a list of roofing contractors in Ōamaru familiar with red-billed gulls, their protection status and managing them. 

There is also more information on the council website or fliers available, providing advice and guidance for building owners and tenants.

If you find gulls with eggs or chicks contact DOC (0800 DOCHOT) for advice on the best way forward.