Dining Out on Black-headed Gulls

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) lists the Black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) as currently being 'moderately threatened (amber)'. This species is currently estimated to have a UK breeding population of around 140,000. Like other birds, the Black-headed gull's future survival is challenged by the latest wave of Avian 'flu. This species faces, however, an additional threat, that does not impact on other UK seabirds. 'Gourmet UK diners' gobble up Black-headed gull eggs in their 'feeding frenzies' (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/may/03/ban-taking-threatened-black-headed-gull-eggs-for-uk-diners-says-rspb). Since 2019, licences have been issued by Natural England (the government body charged with protection of wildlife), to take more than 160,000 Black-headed gull eggs. More eggs are probably lost due to disturbance of nesting areas by the collecters. 'Gourmets' are said to favour Black-headed gull eggs for their attractive shells and 'creamy' yolks. These eggs can be 'nice, little earners', selling at up to £8 'a pop'. The RSPB advocate issuing zero UK licences to take Black-headed gull eggs. The 'gourmets' should surely be able to survive without them!