Fighting birdy: Scottish man arrested after allegedly using seagull in assault

A photo of a Seagull. (Credit: Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C.)

A man was charged with assault in Oban, Scotland, after allegedly using a seagull to attack a victim.

According to a report from the Oban Times, the suspect allegedly picked up two seagulls from off the street and used one to attack a member of the public in the western Scottish town on June 27.

The man was not arrested, but instead was brought home while the investigation continued, the Times reported. A spokesperson for Police Scotland told local media the man was later charged.

The bird was unharmed by the incident, local media says.

King-sized encounter with seagull

Seagulls are a remarkably hardy water fowl, frequently being tangled up in human incidents. King Charles III was graced by one of the birds while visiting Northern Ireland in May, as the seagull dropped a surprise from above, hitting His Majesty’s suit jacket with its droppings.

Authorities generally advise against handling wild animals, and seagulls have a reputation for harassing humans for their food. Research shows a strong shout or sinister stare can keep the birds away.