Hawks drafted in to tackle seagull problem as coronavirus lockdown eases

Seven Harris Hawks are being drafted in to clear the North East’s public spaces of seagulls as the coronavirus lockdown eases.
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Rentokil Pest Control is using the birds of prey to help defend cities including Newcastle, Sunderland and Durham from the flying pests.

The birds are a natural predator of gulls and their presence alters the behaviour of the gulls and other pest birds, so they learn to avoid the area and nest or roost elsewhere.

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The hawks are trained not to attack but instead are flown strategically in the area to deter pests.

Mary Rudgard with two of the company's birdsMary Rudgard with two of the company's birds
Mary Rudgard with two of the company's birds

Head Falconer Mark Zair and experts Mary Rudgard and David Gray fly birds solo or in groups depending on the size of the problem and the frequency of the flights depends on the location, time of the year and population of the nuisance birds.

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Hawks Rango, Gypsy, Isla, Freddie, Skye, Bronson and Harry have completed a rigorous training and socialisation process, so they are familiar with vehicles, hi-vis colours and heavy machinery, which they might encounter while working.

“Gulls are often found inland, beyond their natural coastal habitat, in locations such as city centres as these provide a good source of food and nesting sites,” said Mark Zair.

Two of the hawksTwo of the hawks
Two of the hawks
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“These birds can pose a health and safety risk as they are known to attack people for food or in defence of their young.

“Bird nests can also host insects which could contaminate food retail and production sites while their fouling is acidic and can erode materials such as metal.”

Mary Rudgard added: “To train a bird of prey is to build an incredible relationship that is based on trust and respect. You are relying on expertise to ensure the safety of your hawk and the success of the hawking programme.

“One of my three hawks, Gypsy, has been with me for 20 years after being gifted to me by my grandad who trained me in falconry. She has been working in pest control for the past three years and does a brilliant job soaring above sites and clearing gulls from areas where they’ve been making a nuisance of themselves.”

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