Shoppers didn’t see this one coming when a seagull simply helped himself to a free snack. Here’s the scoop.
Caught in the Act
On a breezy morning, a quick-beaked seagull was caught stealing a pack of crisps from the local convenience store.
His a Regular
Customers were told about a sneaky little seagull who helps himself to some free snacks when the mood strikes.
Too Good To Be True
The store manager, Stuart Harmer, told news outlets like BBC that he knew people wouldn’t believe him without actually catching him. That’s what happened on that beautiful day by the sea.
Just Waltzing In
Every now and again, the seagull would wait to make his move. He’s always quick and gets the job done before anyone can do or say anything.
Taking a Closer Look
In the footage, he is clearly up to his plans again and is seen simply walking in and grabbing a quick pack of crisps before heading out quickly as if not to get caught.
Swift Ninja Skills
In a swift swipe of his beak, Mr “Steven Seagull” snaps up the crisps and quickly heads out the door.
Mr Steven Seagull
Yes, the resident thief has gained quite a reputation with the store manager and co-workers, who call him “Steven Seagull.”
Ever-Growing Theft Crimes
Mr Harmer said Steven has stolen around “30 packets of crisps” within the last “two months.”
His Criminal Reputation Spans Over Years
The Seagull’s thieving antics have spanned over a period of six years already, the manager said. The store was forced to “ban” the little guy.
He Has a Favourite Flavour
During observations, the store manager and co-workers have noticed Mr Steven Seagull has favourite flavours in crisps.
BBQ Treats
The manager noted that the gull really liked the BBQ beef-flavoured packets and would always seem to pinch those.
Devising a Plan
While Steven has been regularly on his “stealing spree,” the rest of the store came up with an idea that might deter the bird. They decided to switch his favourite BBQ Beef for very hot and spicy crisps.
To No Avail
Unfortunately for the convenience store, but fortunately for Mr “Steven Seagull,” he still managed to get hold of his favourite flavour despite the switch.
Perhaps He Laughs at Them?
One can only imagine what’s going on in that little head of his, laughing at the store team’s failure to successfully deter him.
His Also Daring
According to BBC, Mr Harmer mentioned that the gull was “daring,” not afraid of the customers. He would go about his move by popping his little head in by the doorway as if to check if the coast was clear. Next, he’d go for the grab and take off flying with the crisps in his beak.
Customers have seen him even share the spoils with his mates just a bit further down the road from the shop. It’s reported that the seagull would peck open the pack and devour his snack. Mission accomplished!
Taking Some Steps to Curb Steven
Again, the store manager and his team had to put their head together and come up with a plan to stop Steven from causing more “ stock losses.”
Steven’s Mugshot on Display
The convenience store staff has put up posters of Steve’s mugshot. The poster reads, “Please close the door behind you to keep our resident shoplifter out. Thank you.”
Location of the Crimes
Steven’s crimes were taking place in Lyndale Central Store, in Wyke Regis, Dorset.
Is It Enough to End the Stealing Spree?
Putting up posters urging customers to “close the door behind them” when entering the store seems a good plan. However, will this be enough to stop Steven in his tracks finally? The store manager hopes it does, but only time will really tell.
We Underestimate Them
Sometimes it’s easy to take animals for granted and not realise just how smart they are when in fact, they can be calculating and highly intelligent. If Mr Seagull is not a clear example, then nothing is!
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Stevan Aksentijevic.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.
