Ayr’s MSP Siobhian Brown is urging townsfolk and tourists to avoid feeding the birds when they visit the area’s beaches.

It is that time of year again when people in Ayr, Prestwick and Troon are being terrorised by the number of seagulls around the coast and inland.

The birds can be noisy and aggressive, especially when protecting their young and that is why they are a particular nuisance at this time of year.

The chicks have not learned to fly, and the parents become hostile towards any threats.

It is important to remember the most common species of gull around, the herring gull and the lesser black-backed gull, are protected by law. This is because across the British Isles some gull populations are falling. It is also worth remembering that unlicensed action against gulls is illegal.

Speaking about the issue, Ms Brown said:“I have been contacted by many constituents who are being terrorised by these birds, not only at the area’s beaches but further inland. By September the gulls should be heading out to sea and I am aware that is only a temporary solution to the problem.

“South Ayrshire Council’s ‘Feed a Bin not a Gull’ campaign was intended to raise awareness of feeding these birds and how they can become aggressive because of that.

“My advice is clear, cut off their food supplies. That means do not feed them at the beach or in your garden. It is a preventative measure which will help.

“I will be continuing to monitor the situation and I’ll be having talks with partner agencies, to see how I can help.”