“I will shit on everything you love” may sound like a radical statement when it comes from a seagull with a questionable attitude. But if, like us, you value the world’s coral reefs, research has shown that bird droppings like the ones from seagulls, are essential and help maintain healthy reefs. So next time you get a splat of seagull poop on your head while out at sea, bite back the swear words and instead thank the bird for its contribution to a healthier ocean and a richer underwater ecosystem.