This feathered thief was flying above the law.
A mischievous bird, nicknamed “Steven Seagull,” has officially been banned from a British convenience store after more than six years of taking off with bags of chips.
Workers at the Lyndale Central store in the seaside village of Wyke Regis, Dorset, have put up signs asking customers to “close the door” behind them in a bid to stop the seagull’s incessant shoplifting.
In just the past two months alone, the bird stole about 30 bags of snacks, according to shop manager Stuart Harmer.
“Trying to explain to the powers that be that I’ve got stock loss because of a seagull – they think it’s a joke,” he told the BBC.
Whenever the shop door opens, the bird “puts his head around the corner of the door, nicks a packet of crisps and flies off with it,” Harmer said.
His favorite flavor?
BBQ.
In a desperate move to stop the seagull’s thieving, Harmer’s staff put out bags of their spiciest chips for the bird — but he ignored them and still managed to find his favorites, Harmer said.
Once Steven’s got his loot he’ll take it outside, rip it open with his beak and begin feasting.
“Loads of customers have seen him do it — he’s not shy,” said Harmer.
“What can you do?” he added defeatedly.
A sign with a picture of Steven resembling a “wanted” poster has been put up in the store that reads: “Please close the door behind you to keep our resident shoplifter out.”
But even if the door is shut, the bird is bold enough to walk right up and start pecking on the glass, according to Harmer.
