Population Reduction

Population control is only carried out as a last resort when all other methods of eliminating the nuisance flock have been considered. We operate within the terms of the General License, and we complete a fully auditable assessment, to establish whether other methods would be suitable, and documentation detailing the reasons for lethal control. By using A & M Hawk UK, our clients can be sure that the task will be completed humanely and sympathetically.


Flock Reduction
The aim is to quickly reduce the size of the flock to bring the bird problem under control before a cleaning operation and preventative measures are put in place. The two main methods available to us are Live Trapping and Culling using an air-rifle.


Live Trapping
Our clients are re-assured that, when using A & M Hawk UK, this task is carried out within BPCA guidelines and with the utmost sympathy. We use specially designed traps for the target species, and provide shelter, food and water for the trapped birds. On removal from the traps, birds are treated humanely and with respect.


Removal of Nests, Young and Eggs
Operating within the General License, A & M Hawk UK technicians will sympathetically remove any live young, before removing any remaining eggs and nests. The area will be treated with a specialised avian disinfectant leaving it hygienically clean.


Egg Oiling and Egg Substitution
This technique is typically used for populations of gulls, which can become aggressive when they are rearing young. The eggs are either oiled to prevent them from hatching, or removed and replaced with dummy eggs. This achieves long-term reductions in the population if repeated annually.