Red-billed Gulls - Trouble Or Treasure?

Ōamaru is a hot spot for seabirds, and home to a rapid increase in red-billed gulls. This trend reflects an increase throughout Otago but is in marked contrast to a national decline. The pattern of urban nesting is unique in NZ but common overseas. In Ōamaru, the close proximity of gulls and people has led to conflicts. Join us for this talk to find out more.

Dr Chris Lalas (marine scientist, University of Otago) has been monitoring red-billed gulls in Otago for over 20 years and will discuss changes over time and predictions for the future.

Sally Carson (Director, New Zealand Marine Studies Centre), with a background in citizen science, is keen to get schools and other interest groups involved in collecting data to further our understanding about the interaction between gulls and people.

Come along and learn about the Great Otago Gull Count (March 7 – 11) and how you, and your local school, can participate.

Vaccine Pass and masks required.