Seagulls turning your wheelie bins into their personal takeaway? You're not alone. Across the UK, these feathery fiends are notorious for ripping open bin bags, scattering waste, and leaving streets in chaos. But one savvy homeowner has shared a game-changing trick to outsmart them – and it’s ridiculously simple.
The Seagull Struggle Is Real
Urban seagulls have become a nightmare for many, especially in coastal towns where they’ve grown bold enough to dive-bomb bins the moment lids are left ajar. Traditional solutions like weighted lids or bungee cords often fail against their relentless pecking.
The Brilliant Bin Fix
Here’s the hack: loop a carabiner or sturdy clip through the bin’s handle and latch it to a fixed point – like a fence or railing. This stops the lid from flipping open, even if a gull lands on it. No special tools required, just a clip strong enough to resist their attacks.
Why It Works
- Physical Barrier: The clip blocks the lid’s movement, denying access.
- Zero Cost: Most households already have a spare clip lying around.
- Instant Results: No waiting for deterrents to ‘train’ the birds.
Social media users have hailed it as a ‘lifesaver’, with one commenting: ‘Tried this after seagulls wrecked my garden weekly – not a single breach since!’
Other Anti-Seagull Tactics
If clips aren’t your style, consider these extras:
- Brick on the Lid: Weigh it down (though less tidy).
- Reflective Tape: Deters birds with flashes of light.
- Early Collection: Put bins out just before pickup.
Councils have also started trialling gull-proof sacks in some areas, but until then, this clip trick might just save your sanity – and your pavement.
