UPDATE: Scientists at the University of Exeter have just revealed a surprising method to keep seagulls away from your food: shouting! This breakthrough finding comes from a new study conducted in Cornwall, where researchers tested various techniques to deter herring gulls from approaching food.
The study, conducted across nine seaside towns, involved 61 herring gulls and demonstrated that shouting at these birds significantly increases the likelihood of them flying away. Researchers played recordings of a male voice shouting “No, stay away, that’s my food,” alongside a calm voice speaking the same words, and contrasted these with the neutral song of a robin.
In an eye-opening result, nearly 50% of gulls exposed to the shouting voice took flight within one minute. In stark contrast, only 15% of gulls moved away when hearing the calm voice. Meanwhile, 70% of gulls remained near the food while exposed to the robin’s song.
Dr. Neeltje Boogert, a leading researcher at the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at Exeter’s Penryn Campus, emphasized the importance of vocal delivery. “The gulls were more likely to fly away when shouted at and more likely to walk away when spoken to calmly. This suggests they respond differently to the tone and delivery of human voices,” she stated.
The findings challenge the notion that aggression is necessary to deter these birds. Dr. Boogert added, “Most gulls aren’t bold enough to steal food from a person. They have become vilified, but we don’t want people injuring them. They are a species of conservation concern, and this experiment shows peaceful methods can be effective.”
This research not only highlights an innovative approach to managing seagull behavior but also underscores the need for humane solutions. With seagulls often seen as pests at outdoor dining spots, understanding their responses to human interaction could change how we protect our meals without resorting to harmful actions.
As this story develops, keep an eye on further findings from the University of Exeter, which may provide more insights into wildlife behavior and human interaction. Share this with friends who love the outdoors and want to keep their food safe from feathered intruders!
