Threatened black-billed gulls are again nesting on the rooftops in Tūrangi town centre, but the town shouldn't see a return of previous disruptions.
In 2023 a large colony of black-billed gulls nested in Tūrangi town centre, leaving a generous layer of guano on cars, rooftops, and around businesses. This year, just 15 birds have decided to make the town centre their temporary home.
Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Sarah Tunnicliffe says the small headcount this year is thanks to the town supporting efforts to divert the birds elsewhere.
"Businesses have had streamers and sprinklers on the rooftops to scare the birds away, so only these few determined stragglers have decided to nest here, not like the 150 birds we had in 2023!" says Sarah.
"But we're still asking for support to make sure these birds don't associate humans with food, so please don't feed the gulls, either actively or by leaving your food unattended. Feeding them just encourages them to continue using the town centre, where they cause problems by pooing everywhere and squawking a lot."
"People might not be aware, but even small actions like not feeding birds count as naturing, and help to protect the nature we love."
