Seagulls are getting ‘drunk’ on flying ants
Experts claimed that the seagulls got drunk by feasting on flocks of flying ants, causing the birds to stumble through the streets and even disrupt traffic.
Ornithologists say this strange behavior has been spotted in parts of Suffolk, including Lowestoft and Aldeburgh, where seagulls appeared stunned after eating insects in the UK’s hot weather this summer.
The birds take advantage of the annual flying ant season, when winged ants emerge in large numbers to establish new colonies.
However, scientists believe that the holiday may come with an unexpected side effect.
Dr. from the British Foundation for Ornithology. Viola Ross-Smith says ants secrete formic acid as a defense mechanism when threatened, and consuming large amounts can temporarily affect birds.
He explained: “Ants produce formic acid and because it is a mild toxin, the seagulls can get a bit light-headed and appear drunk.
“The hypothesis is that formic acid affects them just as ethanol affects us.”
Flying ants are most commonly seen in mid-July, when queens emerge from underground and take to the skies to mate and establish new nests.
Recent warm weather has created ideal conditions for mass flocks, offering seagulls an unlimited buffet.
Dr Ross-Smith emphasized that the theory has not yet been scientifically proven and other explanations are possible.
He said: “This is just a hypothesis at the moment. Some say the birds were distracted by the food source, weren’t paying attention, or were overwhelmed by the food.”
“You see blankets of seagulls walking on the road, stumbling on the sidewalk and getting in front of cars.
“They’re generally brave birds that don’t shy away from humans. I’d really like someone to test the theory and see if formic acid gets the seagulls drunk.”
The expert said there was no need for alarm despite the unusual scenes.
Dr Ross-Smith added: “They’re taking the opportunity to gorge on insect protein. We’re happy to let nature get on with it.”
He recommended the public only seek help if they appear truly injured or ill, rather than a stunned seagull after a feast of flying ants.
