even if gulls are not statutorially protected, animal cruelty laws apply. ringing the bird’s neck in front of his daughter and others like this, constitutes that cruelty enough to stick.
similarly, we have invasive iguana here in the keys that are to be eradicated as per FWC regulation (we do not do this at our home). however, one can not hunt them on other people’s property, or despatch those in your own garden with any form of cruelty.
also, with all the waterfront dining establishments in the islands, there is a strict “do not feed the seagulls, pelican, or other birds/lizards” policy in those places.
they are not exactly protected by law (with possible exception of the pelican), but one would be dealt with by law enforcement if they were to attempt killing them.
