Seaton residents have expressed disgust after a seagull in the area was painted red and green.

Several residents reported sightings of what they first believed to be an "exotic bird" but it was later revealed that a seagull had been painted in bright colours.

Residents have expressed their shock and outrage at the incident on social media, describing it as "cruel", "disgusting" and "appalling" behaviour.

The incident has been reported to the RSPCA who were expected to visit Seaton this week to check on the welfare of the bird.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: "We are concerned by the possibility that someone may have intentionally painted the gull's feathers.

"This is very worrying as it could cause health problems, impair their ability to fly, and make them more vulnerable to predators.

"Unfortunately we've been unable to capture the gull, who is still able to fly, but would encourage anyone who has any further information to contact us on our emergency line 0300 1234 999."

Are gulls protected?

All wild birds in England and Wales are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

It is an offence to kill, injure or take any wild bird; to intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird that is in use or being built; and to take or destroy and egg of any wild bird.

However, under the Act it is possible to take action against some species, including some species of gull, using the appropriate licence.

Gulls' nests are protected while under construction or in use and it is an offence to restrict access to a nest that is being used.

Living with gulls

Gulls have become an iconic symbol of the British seaside but they often divide public opinion, especially as they are known to snatch food from humans and create litter by ripping open bin bags.

The RSPCA offers the following advice for living with gulls.

How can I deter gulls from rooting through household rubbish?

Dispose of any litter that may be foraged by gulls into bins, rather than leaving it in bags or crates of rubbish.

Gull-proof bins are easily acquired, cheap and very effective. Some councils in Cornwall and Devon have started using hessian bags as gulls cannot peck through them to get to the food.

When out and about?

Snatching food is a behaviour learned and reinforced by being fed by the public. Try to avoid feeding any gulls, keep your food to yourself and, where possible, try to use re-sealable food containers or something that will close.

Avoid giving young children loose food like crisps or chips if you notice a large number of gulls around.

Avoid widespread feeding of gulls, particularly in public areas.

Do not litter; rubbish on the floor will always attract gulls.

From nesting on roofs?

Simple wire-frame structures around chimney pots have shown some success.

Anti-perching devices, such as spines, are considered to be one of the most humane ways of trying to minimise the problems these birds can cause. The spines are either angled so that they are awkward to land on but will not impale the bird, some may be designed to bend but be firm enough to provide an uncomfortable perching or roosting place for the bird. However it is vital these are installed appropriately by trained professionals and inspected regularly.

When installed properly, netting can provide humane, long-term solution to controlling birds. The correct size mesh and tension will ensure that misadventure due to entanglement is reduced. As with anti-perch devices, netting should be maintained and inspected regularly.

Hazing or disturbance during early nest building can be effective on large commercial buildings with flat roofs.

Clear all the moss and plants off your roof and out of gutters.

Between May and July it is advisable to leave gulls alone until the breeding season is over and then take preventive action to ensure they do not return.

If you find a sick, injured or orphaned gull, the RSPCA's advice is to monitor from a distance.

Even if it is on the ground, the bird may not be abandoned or in danger.

If a young bird is found in the open with down feathers and is unable to fly (a nestling), contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. Never attempt to return a chick to the nest.

For more information on seagulls and other animal welfare issues, visit www.rspca.org.uk

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