Seabirds Attack Tourists Across UK Coastal Spots

During a visit to the Farne Islands off the Northumberland coast, Lancashire couple Phillip and Sarah Jane Schofield were aggressively dive-bombed and pecked by seabirds, including Arctic Terns, as the birds fiercely defended their nests. Phillip was pecked on the head at least 20 times while walking along a path, an event captured on video, and Sarah was also attacked when trying to film the birds again, leading her to take refuge in a church. The couple had been warned to stick to paths, walk slowly with heads down, and protect themselves, which helped prevent serious injuries despite the sharp pecks. The Farne Islands are a renowned spot for birdwatching, attracting many serious photographers, and the Schofields expressed enjoyment of the experience despite the attacks. Similarly, in Hastings, a man was bloodied and scarred after a seagull repeatedly dive-bombed him while defending its nest on a rooftop, highlighting how seabirds can become aggressive in protecting their young. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds advises using umbrellas as deterrents in such nesting areas to avoid dive-bombing incidents.