U-T San Diego says authorities have considered washing the bird excrement from La Jolla Cove but that would violate water quality laws.

They've also suggested vacuuming up the poop, installing bird spikes, covering the rocks with removable tarps, building offshore roosting areas for the seagulls, pelicans and cormorants and using falcons to scare off the birds.

Recent rains have brought some relief but officials are still seeking long-term solutions.

Authorities say it's hard to find a solution that won't run afoul of state and federal regulations.

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