New Jersey Man Indicted for Decapitating Seagull over French Fry Theft

A man from Cape May, New Jersey, has been charged with animal cruelty after decapitating a seagull that had stolen a French fry from his daughter during a visit to an amusement park.

The incident occurred at Surfside Pier in North Wildwood during Independence Day week 2024. Witnesses report that Franklin Ziegler, 30, took revenge on the bird after it snatched his child’s snack. He was seen carrying the severed head of the bird around the park and later asked staff for a trash bag to dispose of the body.

a seagull with a french fry — The seagull paid the ultimate price for the stolen snack. *Brian – stock.adobe.com*

Onlookers alerted authorities when they saw Ziegler with the dead bird. Police report that he became hostile during questioning and was charged with animal cruelty, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest again after he was uncooperative.

The North Wildwood Police Department indicated that Ziegler’s behavior led to his arrest. During the investigation, he displayed irate and uncooperative conduct, resulting in additional charges.

Under federal law, specifically the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it is illegal to pursue, hunt, take, or kill migratory birds such as seagulls.

Franklin Ziegler in a white t-shirt with two gold chains — Franklin Zeigler was recently indicted on animal cruelty charges, authorities said. *Franklin Clair Zeigler III / Facebook*

Seagull control experts note that these birds are often fearless, especially if they associate humans with food. Local authorities and experts who manage bird populations say controlling seagull activity in busy areas like boardwalks remains a challenging task, as these birds tend to congregate where food is abundant.

Ziegler appeared in court and pleaded not guilty during his arraignment. His attorney did not respond to requests for comment.