The Farne Islands, off the coast of Northumberland, are home to a huge variety of seabirds, who nest on the rocks and cliffs of the rocky outcrops, and the islands are a haven for birdwatchers
A bloke was brutally pecked on the head by seabirds at least 20 times during a trip to the Farne Islands.
Sarah Jane Schofield, 57, and her hubby Phillip Schofield, 63, had journeyed from their pad near Garstang, Lancashire, to Inner Farne for a glimpse of puffins. But upon reaching their destination, the pair found themselves under attack from a flock of seabirds, including feisty Arctic Terns. A video clip shows Phillip strolling along a path while being repeatedly pecked on the head.
Sarah’s reactions can also be heard in the footage as she too fell victim to the avian assault. Sarah explained: “We were given strict guidelines about sticking to the paths, ensuring we didn’t tread on any young ones and to walk slowly with our heads down.
“I managed to film a close-up shot of a tern with her chick but when I tried to capture her again later, she really went for me. I had to seek refuge in the church!
“Also, while we were queuing to board the boat, there was one particularly aggressive bird that dive-bombed anyone who ventured near a certain spot.
“At the end of the day, they’re just fiercely defending their young.”
The couple were braced for potential attacks and thankfully didn’t sustain any serious injuries. Sarah added: “Our mate had suggested that we shield our heads and it was also mentioned in the info when we booked the tour.
“The hits were a bit sharp although I had a hat on and my jacket hood up so it wasn’t too bad.”
Despite the commotion, Sarah expressed that they had a fantastic time.
She shared: “It was an amazing insight. My only regret is that I only had my iPhone on me.
“There were plenty of serious photographers taking some incredible wildlife shots of the birds.”
The Daily Star previously reported that seagull attacks have soared for the fifth year in a row, with 52% of us being dive-bombed by the birds in the past 12 months.
Around 720,000 seagulls patrol our skies, with around 530,000 living in cities, often on the lookout for an easy meal. In 2020/21, a study found that 20% Brits had fallen victim to a seagull snatching food from them, which rocketed to 39% in 2021/22, and soared again to 48% in 2022/23. In 2023/24, the number rose to 51%, and this past year, 2024/25 it’s soared again, to 52%.
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