A leading wildlife protection group warned Monday that while at this time of year it’s common to meet hapless-looking fledgling seagulls on the streets of central Athens and other major cities, in most cases they don’t need specialised help.
Instead, Anima – Hellenic Wildlife Care Association said in a social media post, provided the young birds are uninjured, it’s best to wrap them in a towel and leave them on a rooftop where their parents can find them, or even just take them to the beach.
Anima said that fledgling gulls have been reported in recent days on pavements and open ground-level spaces across Piraeus and the coastal suburbs of Athens but also on central Patission and Solonos Streets.
“In recent years, as gulls have colonised Athens – as well as Thessaloniki, Halkida, Volos and Alexandroupoli – the same thing happens every June and July, and consequently we frequently get into arguments with members of the public who insist we should go immediately and pick up the errant babies,” Anima said.
“Our approach is that, if the little gull is healthy, without bone fractures or wounds, catch it in a big towel … and take it up to the roof where its parents can find it,” Anima added. “Or if it’s old enough and you are close to the sea, leave it on a beach.”
