Seagulls hatch in a supermarket car park in Cornwall

Two seagull eggs have hatched in a supermarket in Cornwall, a shopper said.

Staff at Morrisons in Liskeard erected barriers and cordoned off eight car parks in June to protect a nesting seagull.

Regular shopper Robert Mackenzie said two “healthy chicks” were seen for the first time on Saturday and were “exploring their enclosure” as the mother gull, known locally as Dolly, watched from the car park.

Morrisons said at the time of the isolation that staff contacted the RSPCA for advice when the seagull was placed on eggs in a nest at the base of a tree to ensure the bird would not be disturbed.

Mr Mackenzie, who doesn’t ‘particularly like seagulls’, said: ‘The chicks look really good.

“They’re well insulated, so you can’t get very close. The cubs are very happy, wandering around and sitting in their cordon at the base of the tree.

“It’s ridiculous, really, because it’s right in the middle of the parking lot.

“The staff were very good and make sure no one gets too close.

“I don’t know why this particular one chose to nest on the ground because it’s really unusual. It is open to predators and dogs, but the staff protected it as best they could.

“I hope they survive.”

It is an offense to damage or destroy a wild bird’s nest while it is being used or constructed.

The RSPCA added that the seagulls could frighten or injure customers if they are stressed.

Morrisons and the RSPCA have been contacted for more information on the latest developments.