There's been a swift reaction from the Department of Agriculture to the theft of herring gulls' eggs from a well-known conservation area in the south of the Island.

And now the public is being encouraged to report such thefts to the police.

The Department's conservation division says eggs have been taken from Langness and St Michael's Isle, which is designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest.

Historically, gulls eggs were taken to supplement a meagre diet - but gulls have been protected for almost 150 years and a special licence is needed to collect their eggs.

Wildlife and Conservation office at DAFF Richard Selman:

If you can help on this please contact police headquarters on 631 212 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.