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Fake Eyes on Takeaway Boxes Deter Herring Gulls

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers in Cornwall, United Kingdom, found that displaying fake eyes on takeaway boxes deters some herring gulls from stealing food.
In experiments, gulls approached boxes with eyes more slowly and were less likely to peck.
About half the gulls eventually learned to ignore the eyes, though the approach could reduce theft when used with other deterrents.
The study notes that eye cues influence behavior in both animals and humans.

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Story summary

Researchers in Cornwall, United Kingdom, found that displaying fake eyes on takeaway boxes deters some herring gulls from stealing food.
In experiments, gulls approached boxes with eyes more slowly and were less likely to peck.
About half the gulls eventually learned to ignore the eyes, though the approach could reduce theft when used with other deterrents.
The study notes that eye cues influence behavior in both animals and humans.