Why do seagulls swoop at people in Gibraltar, and what should I do?

Question

Accepted Answer

Yellow-legged gulls nest on rooftops and cliffs across Gibraltar and become aggressive when people come near their nests or chicks, mainly in spring and early summer. Move away from the nest area, protect your head, and never feed gulls.
The gull you see everywhere in Gibraltar is the yellow-legged gull. Its numbers grew sharply in the late 20th century because it feeds on human waste, and it now nests on buildings, rooftops and cliffs throughout the Rock.
The Government notes that these gulls can be very aggressive towards people who approach their nests during the breeding season. Bird nesting in Gibraltar is busiest between March and the end of June, and swooping is most common once chicks have hatched. Gulls also mob large birds of prey, such as migrating griffon vultures, at this time.
If a gull swoops at you, walk away from the area, as you are probably close to a nest or chick. Holding a hand, bag or umbrella above your head can deter it. Do not attempt to touch chicks on the ground, as the parents will defend them.
Avoid eating in the open where gulls gather, and never feed them, as this encourages bold behaviour. Wild birds, including gulls, are protected, and harming them without a licence is an offence. Gull problems or concerns about nesting gulls should be reported to the Department of the Environment, which runs a licensed gull control programme through its Avian Control Unit.

Why do seagulls swoop at people in Gibraltar, and what should I do?

Short answer

Detailed answer

If a gull swoops at you

Avoiding problems