Researchers from the University of Exeter have discovered that painting eyes on takeaway boxes can reduce seagull thefts by up to 50%. The study, published in Ecology and Evolution, involved presenting herring gulls with takeaway boxes in seaside towns across Devon and Cornwall.
When gulls were given a choice between a box with painted eyes and a plain box, they were slower to approach the eyed box and less likely to peck at it. The deterrent effect persisted even after repeated exposure, suggesting that gulls remain wary of the visual cue.
Lead author Laura Kelley noted that similar 'watchful eyes' have been used to deter starlings from crops, raptors from airports, and predators from livestock. Humans are also susceptible, with images of eyes shown to reduce bike theft and boost charitable donations.
However, the method may not work for all gulls. For particularly bold individuals, shouting has been found to be an effective alternative deterrent.
