Mine! Mine!

Photographer Name
Linda Holton

Date/Year of Photo
Feb. 19, 2016

Location of Photo: (BC photos only)
Lands End, North Saanich, Vancouver Island, BC

Description of Photo
Seagulls love to come to my deck railing where there is an expansive view of the Gulf Islands from Saltspring over Satellite Channel to Piers, Pender, Portland, Knapp and Pym Islands. For some reason known only to gulls, the corner spot is not only the best spot but the ONLY good spot. Perhaps it is because they can see the expanse of water and also the other direction behind the house. It is easy to keep track of predators who may be in the vicinity. People tell me, "It's a nice vantage spot. They will bring their friends and family." No way! They won't allow their friends or immediate family, let alone in-laws. Just ask Nemo... Any feathered fellow sitting here screeches "Mine, Mine!" if another gull has the nerve to try to crowd in and take over the premium spot. Occasionally we do have a rare congenial couple, in which case they both stay on one side - probably fearing that takeover of the corner will cause an argument. However, in this photo we had our regular visitor, Salty the Seagull, fending off a brave competitor who quickly put on the brakes, leaned backwards in mid-flight, and hastily retreated. Salty was no pushover when it came to protecting his corner throne. The invader then went to the chimney to pout and patiently await his chance to claim the eventual vacancy... after which he could be heard screeching, "Mine! Mine!"