Kirkcudbright could be included in a revamped and expanded gull control project.
Councillors will discuss the ongoing scheme which started in 2009 and has achieved success in reducing the number of gulls in The communities committee will also consider a revised scope of delivery for the project which will include the Stewartry town as well as Annan and Stranraer.
Council officials are seeking a balance between protecting the species and reducing nuisance and harm.
In September this year the council commissioned ornithological experts Natural Research Projects Limited to carry out a gull count in Kirkcudbright and found 143 of the birds with 74 in the town centre.
The delivery of the current scheme needs to change as Scottish Natural Heritage has announced a revised licensing regime which gives the gulls additional protection. As a result removal of eggs and nests can only be carried out as a last resort so preventative measures to stop nesting in the first place have to be taken.
The council believe the service could be delivered region-wide within the existing budget.
Sandra Harkness, the community protection manager, will tell members: “Widening the scope of the project to include the whole of Dumfries and Galloway would allow a co-ordinated approach to be made across all towns and residential areas where gulls establish themselves, with an initial focus on Dumfries, Stranraer, Annan and Kirkcudbright.
“Such an approach could be used to encourage gulls to nest away from our residential areas rather than displacing them from one to another. A more managed gull population would protect the species whilst reducing the nuisance and harm caused where they come into conflict with people.”
Councillors will be asked on Tuesday to note the new SNH conditions and agree a proposed revised method of delivering the project and extending it to include Annan, Kirkcudbright and Stranraer.
