THE increasing bird population at Lake Tom Thumb could soon be dealt with by the City of Greater Bendigo, after three petitions were tabled to council in two months.
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Councillors will this week consider going ahead with an expert report, which suggests disrupting the current breeding habits of the protected gulls and ibis, while attempting to relocate the birds to a more suitable location.
Several Eaglehawk residents, including Claire Stemmer and councillor Peter Cox, have been calling for action for several months.
Ms Stemmer said the latest 350-signature petition highlighted concerns that the "infestation" is impacting on the well-being of nearby residents and will get worse in warmer months.
Management of birds expert Ian Temby has investigated the site on several occasions and recommends specific action be taken.
The city agrees with his suggestions but notes the possible impacts on other areas if the birds are relocated.
It says "higher impact options" might be necessary if the birds cannot be attracted to a suitable location.
Higher impact options may have to be considered.
Council did not expand on what further options would been considered, but said any impacts on private buildings would legally become the responsibility of the landowner.
There is currently no funding allocated to deal with the matter.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries also provided council with a range of options to manage the site.
