In brief
70 participants showcased their talent in costumes, transforming a cafe into a lively avian arena.
In the coastal Belgian town of De Panne, the screeches of seagulls filled the air—though not from real birds. On Sunday, dozens of competitors from 13 countries gathered for the fifth annual European Sea Gull Screeching Championship, where they aimed to produce the best imitations of gull sounds and styles. Participants incorporated intricate costumes featuring faux feathers, beaks, and claw accessories as they engaged in over-the-top performances. The event, hosted inside a spacious cafe, became a spectacle as 70 contestants—among them Anna Brynald from Denmark—showcased their talent. Anna, crowned champion in the adult category, adorned herself with white-and-yellow face paint, a feather boa, and a wing-mimicking cape. "I practiced with TikTok and in front of the mirror and the seagulls," she shared, reflecting her dedication to perfecting her craft.Creative props formed part of the performances; one contestant spread her arms like wings while screeching, and made comical pauses to snack from a bag mid-squawk. The unique championship aims not just to crown the best imitators but also to foster appreciation for these often-misunderstood birds, with some competitors advocating for greater sympathy towards seagulls, perceived by many as bothersome. Through their sounds and flamboyant presentations, the participants embraced the quirky charm of seagulls, hoping to redefine public perception and celebrate their resilience.
