Reports citing a new study say seagulls cost people in the UK roughly £171 million worth of food each year through theft or targeting in public spaces, particularly in seaside areas. The findings frame the issue as recurring and widespread, based on a mix of reported experiences and estimated losses.
According to the research described by outlets, a substantial share of people surveyed report having had food taken by seagulls or having been targeted while eating or carrying food. One report adds that the behavior occurs around pedestrians at the seaside, where gulls approach and take meals. Another outlet focuses on the estimated annual cost to consumers, while also noting the survey results. None of the coverage indicates the figure reflects confirmed financial losses for every individual, but rather an estimate tied to the study’s methodology.
Overall, the outlets agree on the scale of the estimated annual loss and the high level of public familiarity with seagulls taking food, while differing mainly in emphasis—some leading with the cost figure and others with the survey percentage of affected people.
