NewsUK NewsAnimalsAn ornithologist has a theory as to why the birds are acting "drunk" after feasting on the insects, but the reason could be that they are just "overwhelmed by the food"07:08, 13 Jul 2026Seagulls have been getting "drunk" after gorging on flying ants, according to one theory shared by an ornithologist after birds were seen stumbling around.‌The birds have been feasting on the insects which have become active in the excessive ­summer heat.‌The seagulls have been seen staggering around Suffolk coastal towns Lowestoft and Aldeburgh.‌Dr Viola Ross-Smith, from the British Trust for Ornithology, says that the gulls are intoxicated by an acid released by the ants, The Sun reports.The ants release formic acid, a chemical defence when under threat, and eating enough ants will cause the bird to become unsteady on their feet due to the overload.‌"Ants produce formic acid and because it’s a mild toxin, the gulls can act a bit woozy and come across as drunk," Dr Ross-Smith said."The hypothesis is the formic acid is affecting them as ­ethanol affects us."Flying ants are especially active around mid-July when the form new colonies as their queens emerge from underground.‌Dr Ross-Smith said: "It is just a hypothesis at the moment."Some say the birds might be so distracted by the food source they're not paying attention. Or that they are overwhelmed by the food."You do see blankets of gulls walking in the road and ­staggering around on the pavement, getting in the way of cars.‌"Usually they're bold birds who don't shy away from humans. I would really love for someone to test the theory and see if formic acid is ­making the gulls drunk."Dr Ross-Smith said the ­public should not be concerned if they saw a woozy bird but should seek help if a gull seemed ill.Article continues belowShe added: "They're taking the opportunity to gorge on the insect protein. We're happy to let nature get on with it."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Animals