Revellers’ leftover takeaways a late night favourite for birds

It’s not just us humans who enjoy a kebab after a night out in the town – our greasy snacks are attracting gulls too.

I ventured onto Dundee’s streets in the early hours of a Sunday morning, just as the club doors were being shut and the chips were being put in takeaway fryers. Initially, all was calm. A few gulls circled lazily overhead, but many were roosting on roofs and appeared to be settled for the night.

Only their echoing screeches and cackles caused any disturbance.

However, as the night went on, and 3am became 4am, they began to come to life to stalk junk food-hungry revellers.

They seemed to know when people would be leaving their leftovers in order to get in a taxi, and timed their descent to grab any food the moment it was left alone.

Undeniably sneaky in nature, they swooped, hopped and stalked their prey, avoiding human contact as much as possible.

Despite the city’s streets being remarkably clean, they were still able to pinpoint potential food sources with impressive efficiency.

It’s a growing problem, and one which can be hugely problematic.

When clubbers drop litter, the gulls ravage the polystyrene packaging and create a mess on the city’s streets.

And, by providing a steady food supply, we are encouraging these gulls to stay, instead of returning to their natural homes.

Our reporter found that gulls are feasting on junk food left by city centre clubbers.