Fred and Mrs. Fred

(photos and writing from Nancy Olney and Gary Ross)

So here’s the lo-down on Fred & Mrs. Fred. Fred started “fishing” with Brother some time back, and when Brother passed away Fred adopted Gary. This is his 7th year on the Wanderer! Around 3 years ago, he hooked up with the lovely and elegant “Mrs. Fred”, and they’ve produced several heirs. Fred’s an alpha gull, scrappy and on occasion rather a hog, with a strong preference for herring with a side of donuts. Mrs. Fred is refined and dainty. During breeding season, they take turns feeding on the Wanderer, likely each carrying food back to their “peep” in the nest. Occasionally, all 3 will visit the boat at the same time, with the youngster being instructed as to the routine. Fred Gull has his own Facebook page, and has sent you a friend request!

He was surprised (and, being a male, just a little put out) to see Mrs. Fred featured on the anchor page (after all, he taught her everything he knows, and here she is stealing the limelight!) He concedes that she is rather photogenic, and admits to being just a little bit proud). Here’s Fred’s selfie,
fredselfie

(Mrs. Fred) flipping the snack cracker so that so she can swallow easily unlike her partner "Mr. Fred" always gets them stuck in his throat.