City Hall hires falconer Caitlin O'Neil for seagull abatement program

March 25, 2025 | Anacortes, Skagit County, Washington

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City Hall hires falconer Caitlin O'Neil for seagull abatement program

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

In a recent City Council meeting, Anacortes officials discussed innovative measures to address the growing issue of seagulls nesting on City Hall. Public Works Director Caitlin O'Neil introduced a unique solution: hiring a falconer to use trained birds of prey for bird abatement. This approach aims to deter seagulls without harming them, focusing on scaring them away rather than exterminating them.

O'Neil explained that the falconer, who visits the site two to three times a week, employs a Harris hawk named Crash to help manage the bird population. This method is seen as a more humane alternative to installing physical barriers, such as wire systems, which could be costly and less effective.

The falconry-based bird abatement strategy not only addresses the immediate problem of nesting seagulls but also has a broader impact on the surrounding area, potentially affecting a few blocks around City Hall. O'Neil highlighted the success of similar efforts, noting that the presence of birds of prey can effectively scare off unwanted birds like seagulls and crows.

In addition to this discussion, the meeting also announced upcoming open houses on April 1 and 2, along with a virtual meeting on April 3, aimed at informing the community about the Navy's Growler operations at the nearby air station. Residents are encouraged to participate and learn more about these initiatives.

As Anacortes continues to explore creative solutions for community challenges, the falconry program represents a commitment to both environmental stewardship and effective public service.

Converted from City of Anacortes - City Council Meeting, 3/24/25 (Zoom Livestream) meeting on March 25, 2025
Link to Full Meeting

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