Residents asked to take part in gull survey

North Ayrshire Council is joining forces with its Ayrshire counterparts, Inverclyde Council and NatureScot to develop a new Area-Wide Gull Conservation and Management Plan.

The partnership will work together to better understand gull populations, address urban challenges and identify practical measures that support both communities and conservation objectives across the region.

And the partners are looking for input from local residents to try and learn more about gull behaviour.

Gulls are an important part of Scotland's natural environment, but several species have experienced significant population declines in recent decades.

At the same time, some species have increasingly adapted to urban environments, nesting on buildings and foraging within towns and communities.

As part of the project, information will be gathered on gull populations, known hotspots, conservation status, legislation and existing research. The project team will also identify evidence gaps, assess survey requirements and engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including residents, businesses, environmental organisations and community groups.

The findings will inform the development of a Gull Conservation and Management Plan and a two-year action programme focused on reducing conflict between gulls and people, improving understanding of gull behaviour and supporting positive conservation outcomes.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council added: “We are trying to learn more about gulls, how they live in urban areas and what influences their behaviour and how we can manage them for the better of residents and the gulls themselves.

"By working collaboratively with our neighbouring councils and NatureScot, we identify practical, proportionate measures that support conservation while reducing impacts on residents, businesses and local communities."

The project team is keen to hear from anyone with an interest in the future conservation and management of gulls across the region.

Take part in the survey

Published: 12 November 2026