2026-07-21 12:06:07
Seagulls are getting intoxicated by feasting on swarms of flying ants, leaving the birds stumbling through streets and even holding up traffic, experts have claimed.
Ornithologists say the bizarre behaviour has been spotted in parts of Suffolk, including Lowestoft and Aldeburgh, where gulls have been seen appearing woozy after gorging on the insects during this summer’s hot weather in the UK.
The birds are taking advantage of the annual flying ant season, when winged ants emerge in huge numbers to establish new colonies.
But scientists believe the feast may come with an unexpected side effect.
Dr Viola Ross-Smith, from the British Trust for Ornithology, says the ants release formic acid as a defence mechanism when threatened, and consuming large quantities could temporarily affect the birds.
She explained: “Ants produce formic acid and because it’s a mild toxin, the gulls can act a bit woozy and come across as drunk.
“The hypothesis is the formic acid is affecting them as ethanol affects us.”
Flying ants are most commonly seen around the middle of July, when queens emerge from underground and take to the skies to mate and establish new nests.
The recent spell of warm weather has created ideal conditions for mass swarms, giving gulls an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Dr Ross-Smith stressed that the theory has yet to be scientifically proven and other explanations remain possible.
She said: “It is just a hypothesis at the moment. Some say the birds might be so distracted by the food source they’re not paying attention. Or that they are overwhelmed by the food.
“You do see blankets of gulls walking in the road and staggering around on the pavement, getting in the way of cars.
“Usually they’re bold birds who don’t shy away from humans. I would really love for someone to test the theory and see if formic acid is making the gulls drunk.”
Despite the unusual scenes, the expert said there is no reason for alarm.
Dr Ross-Smith added: “They’re taking the opportunity to gorge on the insect protein. We’re happy to let nature get on with it.”
She advised members of the public only to seek help if a gull appears genuinely injured or unwell, rather than simply dazed after its flying ant feast.
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