European Championship for Gull Screeching Delights Crowd in De Panne

The European Championship for gull screeching took place on April 21st in De Panne, Belgium, where individuals of all ages gathered to showcase their skills at imitating the sound of seagulls. According to the Gull Screeching website, “When by the sea, you always hear the screeching of seagulls. They are acrobats in the air, giving you the time of your life. A gull screech brings back good memories.” Competitors wore costumes and fans packed the venue where the competition was being held. The contest features three categories: adults, juniors, and colony (meaning a group). This year’s junior champion, Cooper Wallace from the United Kingdom, scored an impressive 92/100 with his seagull squawk, impressively including several call types that resembled real gull calls. Jan Seys, marine biologist and judge of the screeching contest, commented to the BBC: “He was not only the best young participant but also of all those who took part in the championship.” Simão João from Portugal won first place in the adults category with an 87/100 score. Team Loïc Devos Anzegem secured victory in the colony category, earning a remarkable 88/100 points.