Govt investigates ‘cruel’ gull poisoning

The Department of the Environment is investigating the “slow and painful” deaths of a number of Yellow-legged Gulls who appear to have been poisoned in recent months.

The Department may approach the Royal Gibraltar Police with the matter once it concludes its investigation.

In a statement the Gibraltar Government explained that a number of dying Yellow-legged Gulls displaying unusual symptoms have been brought to the attention of the Department of the Environment.

Veterinary analyses have shown that these birds have been poisoned, the Government said.

“The public is reminded that the killing of all wild birds is illegal without a licence. This includes gulls.”

“Poisoning results in a slow and painful death that is extremely cruel,” the statement read.

“Furthermore, the use of poison can have unintended consequences and affect other fauna, either other species that take the poisoned bait or predators that eat poisoned prey.”

“Some of these species may be rare. It could potentially affect children and, of course, pets.”

“The Department of the Environment is currently investigating all evidence at its disposal and may approach the Royal Gibraltar Police in due course.”

If anyone has any information relating to the poisoning of wild birds, this should be shared with the Department of the Environment at 1b Leanse Place or by email to info.environment@gibraltar.gov.gi.