Seagulls Captivate Visitors Amid Papal Conclave at the Vatican

As the world awaits the announcement of the new Pope, seagulls have unexpectedly taken center stage at the Vatican, providing entertainment for thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square. The ongoing conclave, which commenced on Wednesday, has drawn attention not only for its religious significance but also for the amusing antics of these birds. With the anticipation of either white or black smoke signaling the election outcome, many spectators are using the opportunity to observe the lively seagull population that has made the area their temporary home.

From the vantage point of St. Peter's Square, observers can easily spot the seagulls, which are often seen landing on the iconic chimney of the Sistine Chapel. A live camera, equipped with zoom capabilities, continuously captures their movements, with images being broadcast on large screens for those attending the event. A memorable moment during the 2013 conclave saw a seagull resting on the chapel's chimney for over an hour, much to the delight of onlookers.

Despite their entertaining presence, seagulls are not particularly well-regarded in Rome. The city, situated approximately 30 kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea, has a substantial seagull population, estimated at around 50,000. These birds have adapted to urban life, often seen perched on rooftops or scavenging around the city.

While the sight of seagulls perched peacefully on the Sistine Chapel may appear serene, the reality is quite different as night falls. Before garbage collection services arrive, the seagulls aggressively rummage through refuse, tearing open trash bags to forage for food. This behavior has raised concerns among city officials, particularly regarding the proper disposal of waste.

The presence of seagulls in Rome was significantly less common prior to the 1970s when their numbers were minimal due to the city's distance from the coast. Reports indicate that in 1971, there was only a single breeding pair in the area. Today, however, the seagulls have adapted their diets to include local cuisine, often feeding on pasta, pizza, and bread instead of their typical marine fare.

The city administration has urged residents to manage their waste responsibly to deter seagulls from becoming overly reliant on urban garbage. This includes ensuring that balconies and terraces do not become attractive nesting sites for the birds.