Seagulls and other wild birds

All birds, including all gull species, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

This means that hurting them or damaging their nests during the nesting season (approximately March to September) is a criminal offence.

If you think someone has hurt a gull, report it to the police as a wildlife crime. 

Call 101, or report it online:  

Northumbria Police: Report an incident

More information: 

• RSPB: Urban gulls and the law
• GOV.UK: Wildlife and habitat conservation

Injured or distressed birds

If you are concerned about an injured or distressed bird, contact: 

• Pawz For Thought - Working to help animals throughout the North East. Call 0771 877 1591.
• RSPCA: Sunderland, Hartlepool, South Tyneside - call 0300 1234 999.