Observe the swarm of flying ants. Some individuals suggest that seagulls appear “intoxicated,” but can consuming ants truly affect these birds’ state?
Numerous ant species release formic acid as a defense mechanism, which is harmful to birds. Thus, it’s conceivable that ingesting ants could disorient a seagull.
Yet, the black garden ants prevalent on British pavements during summer emit minimal amounts of formic acid.
Experts theorize that the birds are primarily focused on foraging, likely oblivious to their surroundings.
This article addresses the query (originated from Bernie’s email) “Can seagulls truly become intoxicated from flying ants?”
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