Seagulls in Liepāja Become Brazen: Snatch Food from Hands and Café Terraces
In Liepāja, silver gulls have lost their fear of humans, snatching food directly from hands and stealing from café terraces, causing losses for businesses. Experts call for long-term solutions, including public education and preventive measures.
Residents of Liepāja are increasingly facing aggressive seagull attacks while trying to eat outdoors. The birds not only snatch food from people's hands but also steal pizzas and cutlets from café terraces. According to LSM+, citizens say they no longer feel safe when any food is nearby.
Local resident Laura recounted an incident where a seagull snatched snacks from her hands, and yesterday she almost lost her hot dog. Such cases have become routine, especially near the sea and in parks.
Cafés Suffer Losses
Food businesses are experiencing significant financial losses. Jānis Riekstiņš, manager of the café "Dzintara boulings," stated that the birds not only steal food but also damage terraces and equipment. The establishment is forced to prepare new portions at its own expense to compensate customers.
Solutions Without Radical Measures
Ornithologist Artūrs Bīlerts explained that seagulls are protected birds and cannot be hunted or shot. He recommends informational signs, bans on feeding birds, as well as lasers, sound repellents, and protective nets, though electronic devices often work only temporarily.
Richards Miķelsons, an expert from the Nature Conservation Agency, emphasized that bird nests are legally protected during summer, so the most effective approach is prevention – preventing birds from nesting near human dwellings and limiting access to food. The main issue is irresponsible feeding by residents, which reduces the birds' natural fear of humans.
