Meet Cecil: The clever food-stealing seagull who became a local celebrity

Meet Cecil, the Clever Food-Stealing Seagull Who Became a Local Celebrity (Representational Image: Canva)

At a sunny beach, your lunch suddenly disappears. You turn your head, and it is gone. The thief? Not a person, but a bird. Meet Cecil, a plump seagull with daring moves.

Who is Cecil and why is he famous?

Cecil lives at Waterford Beach Park in Connecticut. He has gained fame for his relentless food-stealing acts. Locals say everyone knows his yellow eyes. His sharp beak and round body tell his story. Years of snatched snacks have shaped his reputation.

How does Cecil steal food from beach visitors?

Unlike other gulls, Cecil does not wait. He swoops directly when food appears in people’s hands. Sometimes he attacks, sometimes he snipes, but he never hesitates. Camera crews filmed him stealing without any fear. He even risked biting fingers to get food, as reported by NEWSCENTER Maine.

Beachgoers say Cecil loves starchy snacks and treats. He also enjoys crab legs when he finds them. Carbohydrates seem to be his chosen diet. Each theft adds to his already portly frame. His daring behaviour shocks first-time visitors every summer.

Has Cecil inspired other gulls to copy him?

Yes, many locals believe Cecil leads a gull gang. He often steals food in groups with others. People joke that he runs organised beach crime. Complaints about food thefts have already increased this year.

The city of Waterford has installed warning signs. Notices alert beachgoers about Cecil’s relentless food-stealing acts. Officials admit there is little more they can do. Cecil is still a wild animal after all. The Recreation and Parks Department says he causes no harm. For now, the notorious gull is left in peace.

Will Cecil’s stealing ever come to an end?

Signs may deter, but Cecil shows no sign. His daring swoops continue despite awareness and growing complaints. Locals expect his legend to grow each summer. To many, Cecil is both menace and mascot.