GPS tracked seagulls enjoy trips to the seaside
HOLIDAYMAKERS are not the only ones flocking to the seaside – seagulls enjoy day trips to Blackpool.
A squabble of seagulls were fitted with GPS trackers to follow their movements as part of a conservation project.
British Trust for Ornithology scientists were surprised to find that 25 lesser black-backed gulls they were studying at a nature reserve in Cumbria made daily 40-mile return trips to the Lancashire resort.
It’s been fascinating learning that the gulls have been visiting Blackpool in the summer
Warden Matt Lipton, from Cumbria Wildife Trust’s South Walney reserve, said: “This has been a very exciting project to be involved with. It’s been fascinating learning that the gulls have been visiting Blackpool in the summer.
“I am eagerly awaiting our gulls’ return next year to find out what they have been up to throughout the winter.”
The gulls’ population at Walney has been declining. Data from their GPS tags is providing valuable insights into their habitats.