Distribution and consistency of Yellow-legged Gull, Larus michahellis, along the coastal shore in continental Tuscany

Abstract

A survey of breeding Yellow-legged Gull, Larus michahellis, along the coastal shore in continental Tuscany was started in 2006. In the first year, 10 sites (40%) out of 25 surveyed were occupied by 329 pairs (286 certain and 43 probable). 60% of the pairs nested in urban areas, 34% in wetlands and 6% on rocky cliffs. The greatest concentration was recorded in the city of Livorno (47% of pairs). This project aims to monitor numbers and distribution of Yellow-legged Gull in continental Tuscany, also providing appropriate knowledge to manage possible negative interactions between gulls and human activities.