Seagulls are stealing £171 million worth of food from Brits every year, according to research by Compare the Market.
More than seven in 10 Brits have had food stolen or targeted by the birds, with fish and chips the most common target. Nearly three-quarters of gull victims have had the feathered thieves try to make off with their fish and chips, while sandwiches and ice creams are also frequently taken.
Diners change behaviour to avoid gulls
The threat has become so serious that diners are hiding their lunches, eating them quickly or giving up on them altogether. Almost a third have dropped, abandoned or sacrificed their food when confronted by the birds, the research found.
The gulls will target almost anything, with reports of them going after children's toys and bottles and cans of drink.
Bank Holiday thefts expected to rise
Compare the Market's Charlie Evans said: "We've all been there - you sit down with your chips, look away for two seconds and suddenly your lunch has grown wings."
"Seagulls aren't just stealing our food, they're making a meal of our money too."
Thefts are expected to soar over the Bank Holiday weekend as people eat fish and chips at the seaside.
How to deter the birds
Wildlife experts suggest Brits can scare off the birds by staring them down and waving their arms above their heads. NatureScot has suggested putting "googly eyes" on takeaway boxes to spook gulls, claiming they "do not like eye contact".
