They have become a despised addition to the seaside outing, terrifying both locals and holidaymakers alike. But now, one area plagued by seagulls has taken the unusual step of hiring Britain's first 'gull ranger' in a bid to soothe relations between the birds and humans.
New Role to Tackle Conflict
The Berwickshire Marine Reserve (BMR) charity is advertising for the warden to help tackle the 'conflict' between gulls and people. The role covers the coastal area between Eyemouth and St Abbs in Scotland, which has been plagued by seagull attacks on locals and tourists. During 2024, the herring birds were said to be targeting children there.
Job Details and Responsibilities
The new job covers the summer months and pays £13.45 per hour for a maximum of 25 hours per week. The aim is to 're-establish a balanced relationship between humans and gulls through education and engagement.'
The advertisement reads: 'This is an excellent opportunity for applicants to gain interdisciplinary experiences while working with a unique marine conservation charity. The Berwickshire Marine Reserve (BMR) encompasses 10.3km2 of some of the most diverse and stunning marine environments along the Berwickshire coast, supporting a variety of commercial and recreational interests. The conflict between gulls and people in coastal towns has become a political talking point.'
'Thanks to funding from Flora and Fauna International, we have the opportunity to hire a dedicated Gull Ranger over the Summer months. The conflict between gulls and people in coastal towns has become an issue that is prevalent in social and traditional media, and has become a political talking point. NatureScot are supporting BMR's People and Gulls project this Summer, and our aim is to engage with our local community and businesses to attempt to re-establish a balanced relationship between humans and gulls through education and engagement.'
Duties of the Gull Ranger
The Gull Ranger will be part of the public/visible arm of the BMR. The prime responsibility of the post will be to engage with local people and visitors about gulls, the importance of not feeding them, how to behave to avoid conflict, and conservation issues. The role will also involve conducting citizen science gull population surveys, engaging with local schools and community groups, attending local events and galas, being a community presence and point of contact, and delivering awareness sessions.
As this role will involve working with children and vulnerable adults, a PVG check will be carried out. Our Gull Ranger will be an integral part of the BMR team, ensuring delivery of our Gull and People project and supporting our wider team including project officers and marine rangers. This post requires flexibility around days/hours worked and will include some weekend working.
The organisation is looking for an 'enthusiastic self-starter with a passion for ornithology, in particular gulls.'
