The Importance of Refuse Tips to Gulls Wintering in an Inland Area of South-East England

SUMMARY The number of gulls wintering inland has steadily increased throughout the twentieth century and it is apparent that this has been achieved by exploiting man's activities. Gulls in the area under study were shown to be mainly of Continental origin. They roosted on reservoirs and the directions of their daily dispersals were dictated by the disposition of refuse tips, their principal feeding sites. Individuals showed tendencies to return to the London area and use the same flightlines and feeding areas, including tips, in successive years. As man-made environmental changes continue, and are apparently not yet fully exploited by gulls, there exists a potential for further expansion of the gull population and consequent aggravation of the problems it presents.