WHAT ARE THOSE SEAGULLS DOING IN THE PARKING LOT? If you walk through any suburban mall parking lot these days, you may encounter one of nature’s puzzles: Why are seagulls hanging out here? With no oceans nearby, no beaches, or no enticing seaside picnics, what attracts an ocean bird to a retail plaza? FROM SHORE TO STORE “casual feeders” who would toss a french fry out of the car window for the birds, and “dedicated feeders” who regularly drove to mall parking lots and served flocks of birds en masse by dumping big loads of bread and other food!
While the gulls weren’t above dumpster diving, they preferred to await food deliveries from “their” humans. The scientists concluded that humans’ deliberate mass feedings encouraged the mass gull gatherings at malls around the country.
For many of the 50 species of seagulls, the name is a misnomer. While many species do stick to the coasts, a large number, including a species known as the ring-billed gull, are just as happy living inland, especially in suburban parking lots! These gulls enjoy picking up human leftovers wherever they land, and shoppers exiting with mall food often leave an appetizing trail. But gulls aren’t craving just any food scraps. When scientists in Massachusetts studied suburban flocks of ring-billed gulls roosting on a drinking-water reservoir, they discovered the birds flocked during the day to a nearby shopping mall to eat. Surprisingly, the gulls weren’t satisfied to scavenge for rubbish in trash cans and dumpsters. They were waiting patiently for humans to feed them deliberately. Scientists divided these bird-feeding humans into two groups:
Also, parking lots resemble the birds’ natural habitats in some ways. Gulls dislike having anything obstruct their flight path overhead or getting in the way. Various species will flock to almost any kind of open space, from baseball fields to landfills.
Maybe that’s so they can dive-bomb picnickers below and swipe your toddler’s hot dog, or snatch that piece of pizza out of your hand. And while many dedicated feeders believe the gulls need
their help to get enough to eat, scientists say that is just another trick these savvy birds play on us humans! They’re actually fully capable of foraging for themselves.
This February, Let’s Make Little Changes for a Big Difference
Your heart has carried you through decades of memories, milestones, and moments worth cherishing, and February is the perfect reminder to give it some love in return. Heart Health Month doesn’t mean you have to make intimidating lifestyle overhauls. Instead, take small steps that help you stay active, independent, and full of energy for years to come. Know the most common risk factors. Let’s start with what raises the risk in the first place. The most common contributors include: • High blood pressure • Diabetes • High cholesterol • Family history of heart disease • Smoking • Being overweight or obese • A sedentary lifestyle Awareness is empowering, and knowing these risk factors helps you build habits that support a stronger cardiovascular system. Move your body in ways your heart loves. Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous to be effective. In fact, routine movement is one of the most powerful tools you have for keeping your heart performing at its best. Activities like brisk walking, dancing, swimming, and cycling all help your heart pump more efficiently and improve circulation.
Experts recommend aiming for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, approximately 30 minutes, five days a week. Begin with short sessions, even 10 to 15 minutes at a time, counts. If you’re unsure where to start, consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Monitor the ‘silent’ heart health markers. Schedule routine check-ups and consider tracking your blood pressure and blood sugar at home using tools like a blood pressure cuff or glucometer. A journal can help you notice patterns, stay accountable, and work with your physician to make meaningful changes when needed. Eat with your heart in mind. A nourishing diet is one of your heart’s greatest allies. Choosing whole, colorful foods provides your body with the nutrients it needs to support a healthy cardiovascular system. Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, such as olive oil, nuts, and avocados. A few everyday tips that go a long way: choose fresh ingredients when possible, keep meals balanced, and stay mindful of portions to support a healthy weight. Build heart-healthy habits into your day. You don’t need dramatic lifestyle changes to protect your heart, just consistent, mindful practices. This February, take a moment each day to care for the most important muscle you have. Your heart will thank you for it.
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