Black billed gulls are an endangered species that nest in the Ashburton riverbed each spring. They are expected to begin moving into the river and away from businesses as the breeding season starts.
As a protected species, traditional methods of deterring and controlling the birds are not allowed. However, an effective and appropriate way to help dissuade the birds is to remove unnecessary food waste from the area.
Some businesses in the central business district have also reverted to installing large bird shaped kite structures on their buildings to stop birds from settling on their roofs.
Gulls, like many birds will scavenge what they can from rubbish that people leave behind, so by reducing this food source, the birds are less likely to want to stay in the area.
