Kirkcudbright residents whose lives are being made a misery by gulls are being urged to report problems to the council.
The communities committee recently allocated extra cash to tackling incidents in trouble spots across the region.
A survey in Kirkcudbright revealed the gulls were a problem for 69 families with their mental health and wellbeing suffering – particularly during and after nesting periods.
In the summer months, noisy nesting birds have been wakening residents as early as 4am with locals also being attacked by swooping birds and having to deal with excrement.
Councillor Pauline Drysdale is now asking people to let the local authority know about the issue so that action can be taken.
She said: “Whilst the council have recruited a gull officer it’s often a challenge for elderly residents to report issues as it requires to be done online via a dedicated email address.
“I reiterate that filling in the paper surveys was not enough detail for the council as they require your full details.
“Should you be experiencing stress and angst due to gulls you are strongly advised to email gulls@dumgal.gov.uk or call the council on 030 33 33 3000 and ask to speak to the gull officer if you can’t access a computer, iPad or laptop.
“The dedicated officer will assist regarding advice on applying for a licence through NatureScot to deal with problems experienced, the fitting of spikes onto your property and how to access the Trusted Trader scheme to implement these.”
Councillor Drysdale has also contacted DGHP to ask them to help tenants with the fitting of spikes in properties where the problem exists.
And she has talked to the Dee and Glenkens ward officer to ensure that “Do not feed the gulls signs” are displayed prominently around the town.
“Quite simply, we need to see positive action in certain areas to protect the residents most affected and in the meantime I’d encourage people to dispose of litter and food stuffs carefully and sensibly.”
