I have great sympathy for Grace Amos, who was attacked by a gull (Argus, July 3), but the offending bird should not have been culled, since it was merely following its instincts.

Gulls are wonderful parents, probably too good, and very protective of their young. This bird saw anything approaching the nest site as a threat.

I suggest adult gulls are left alone to rear their chicks, after which measures should be taken to block off the nesting area to discourage the birds next time.

To avoid the attentions of protective parent gulls, put an umbrella over your head when approaching them while they nest on rooftop property, thus obscuring the birds' view.

We have taken away some of the seagulls' natural habitat and, being good survivors, they have moved inland.

With a little foresight, there is room for us all.

-Gloria Wheatcroft, The Drive, Hove