Tuesday 25 August 2015
Media Enquiry from Guernsey Press:
We understand people have been sent letters warning that they will be prosecuted if they feed the seagulls at Bordeaux.
Could Environment confirm whether it is aware of this issue? Has it sent letters out?
It is an issue for other areas of the coastline as well? What is the particular concern?
Could you come back to me by the end of the day?
Environment Department Response:
The Environmental Services Unit has sent a letter to someone known to feed gulls regularly at Bordeaux. The letter requested that they stop feeding the birds due to a rat problem noted in the area. The Environment Department wishes to clarify that there was no mention of the possibility of prosecution in the letter and that this had not been considered. The letter was sent following reports from Environmental Health and also from members of the public that rats were appearing during the day time at Bordeaux. A pest control company has been asked to treat rat holes in the area.
The only other coastal area that has been treated for rats this year is the Halfway/ Les Banques. The problem here is considered to be due to displacement caused as a result of the construction works at the "GTC" site.
The Environment Department strongly recommends that people enjoy feeding wild birds in their own gardens and to only feed quantities that the birds will eat in one day. Using tree-hung feeders and bird tables will reduce the risk of rats occurring. Seed, halved apples, fatballs and dried mealworms give the high levels of energy and protein garden birds need, particularly through winter months and spring when birds are preparing to breed.
Bread is a poor food for wild birds because it has none of the nutrients birds need for good health. Ducks in particular may be weakened by digestive problems when fed bread and may result in them having weak and sickly young. People feeding birds at Saumarez Park are reminded to 'Please be kind, don't feed bread.'
Contact Information:
Environmental Services Unit
Environment Department
Tel: 01481 717200
