Man Fined $6,000 for Crushing Endangered Black-Billed Gull Nests

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New Zealand man fined $6,000 for deliberately crushing endangered black-billed gull nests with heavy machinery on his Belfast property.

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Clive Gordon drove a 15-ton digger and utility vehicle through approximately 100 birds' nesting area, leaving behind cracked eggs and dead chicks.

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Department of Conservation investigated the site after a public tip-off, discovering abandoned nests and surviving gulls had fled the area.

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Black-billed gulls hold unique status as world's only endangered gull species on IUCN Red List, with population rapidly declining over three decades.

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From 90,000 breeding adults in 2008, experts predict remaining population could plummet additional 70% within next decade.

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DOC Operations Manager Andy Thompson dismissed Gordon's claim of ignorance about protected status, citing repeated deliberate destruction.

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These native New Zealand gulls play crucial ecological role by scavenging dead animals and waste while maintaining clean riverine environments.

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Colony abandonment deals severe blow to species already struggling with habitat loss, predators, and human disturbance.

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Conservation officials hope this incident raises public awareness about protecting the endangered black-billed gulls.

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