#SeagullsversusCrows

Just a very short blog here from a non ornithologist about Seagulls and Crows observed on the Solent shore between Seaview and Ryde.

Most early mornings I ride my bike from Seaview to Ryde and back again. It is about 5 miles. I guess it is a bit of exercise although the route is flat - but what I mainly get out of it is a gentle start to the day, some fresh air and a more and more importantly I think - an engagement with the weather, the tides and the changing seasons. It is also a good thinking time.

This morning I rode past an old guy feeding a large flock of Crows on the sea wall. This seemed a touch incongruous because in time past it would be Seagulls getting the misplaced indulgence.

There have always been Crows hopping along on the beach buts this mornings event confirmed to me an impression I have formed before and that is Crows are more evident now along my bike ride and Seagulls less so. (Certainly it is the Crows that mainly create the mess around the waste bins by pulling out the fast food wrappers.)

I resorted to Google when I got home and searched Seagulls v Crows.

I came up with this from a site called NewPetsOwner. I have copied and pasted selectively.

8 Reasons Why Seagulls and Crow Fight

The age-old struggle between crows and seagulls is one that continues to captivate the world. For centuries, these two birds have been in a constant battle for resources and territory, making them natural foes.

Understanding seagull and crow behavior

Before we can understand the conflict between seagulls and crows, we need to take a closer look at their behavior. They are both highly adaptive birds with different needs and strategies for survival.

8 Reasons why seagulls and crows fight

Now that you know a bit about their behavior, let’s get into the details of why these two species are constantly clashing.

1. Territorial behavior

Seagulls and crows are territorial birds. They will defend their nesting sites, feeding grounds, and roosting areas from other birds.

2. Aggressive behavior

Seagulls and crows are known for their aggressive behavior towards other birds and animals. They will often dive-bomb and harass other birds to drive them away from their territory.

This behavior is especially common during nesting season when seagulls and crows are protecting their young.

3. Dominance

Within a group of seagulls or crows, there is often a dominant bird that will assert its authority over the others.

This dominance is established through displays of aggression and vocalizations. The dominant bird will often have access to the best food sources and mating opportunities.

4. Group dynamics

Seagulls and crows are social birds that often live in large groups. Within these groups, there is often a hierarchy based on dominance and territorial behavior.

5. The fight for resources

Seagulls and crows are known to fight over food sources. Both birds are scavengers and opportunistic feeders, which means they will eat almost anything they can find.

This often leads to competition for food, especially in urban areas where there are limited resources.

Seagulls are known to be aggressive and will often chase crows away from food sources. However, crows are intelligent birds and will often find ways to outsmart seagulls and steal their food.

6. Kleptoparasitism

Kleptoparasitism is a behavior where one animal steals food from another. Seagulls and crows are both known to engage in this behavior. Seagulls are known to steal food from other birds, including crows.

Crows, on the other hand, are known to steal food from seagulls. This behavior can lead to fights between the two birds as they try to protect their food sources.

Competition for food and kleptoparasitism are the two main reasons why these birds fight. Both birds are scavengers and opportunistic feeders, which means they will eat almost anything they can find.

This often leads to competition for food, especially in urban areas where there are limited resources.

7. Spring Nesting Season

During the spring nesting season, seagulls and crows become more territorial. They begin to defend their nesting sites and breeding territories. Seagulls will aggressively defend their nests, while crows will defend their territories from other crows.

Seagulls are known to be very protective of their nests, and will attack any bird that comes too close. They will use their sharp beaks and claws to defend their eggs and young. Crows, on the other hand, will use their sharp beaks and talons to defend their territories from other crows.

8. Territory Disputes

Territory disputes can occur when two birds try to occupy the same nesting site or territory. This can lead to aggressive behavior, such as fighting and vocalizations. Seagulls and crows will often engage in these disputes during the breeding season.

So this battle is not a new one but my take in the area I am looking at is the Crows are winning. They are the new kids on the block. They are taking over. (Good I think that Gulls are getting some of their own medicine !) Where have the Seagulls gone ?